On February 7, Westmont’s competition cheer team departed for Florida to take the mat one last time at NHSCC (National High School Cheerleading Championships). Beginning in early October, the cheerleaders worked continually and tirelessly for months to perfect a two-and-a-half-minute routine packed with stunts, tumbling, and jumps. Head Coach Kelly Sutton comments on the athletes’ dedication: “Through 6 a.m. practices and upwards of 10 full-out routines per practice, [their] bodies became conditioned and strong.” Excited for the intense, numerous hours of work to pay off, Westmont Cheer packed up their uniforms, ribbons, and shoes and crossed the country to represent the West Coast.
Traveling to Florida a day early allowed for even more preparation time on Thursday. The cheerleaders took to the renowned football field—a large, decorated turf area in Disney’s All-Star Sports resort—where they held a very successful, productive practice. “Being surrounded by so many amazing teams from across the country is what makes practicing on the football field so fun. We push ourselves because we want to represent Westmont Cheer in front of these other hardworking teams,” says athlete Paige Davis. Surrounded by determined, competitive energy, the cheerleaders “started to gain more confidence in their skills,” claims Coach Kelly, and got into the competition mindset as they looked forward to the next day.
Confident, focused, and excited, the team rose on Friday and headed to the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex where UCA (United Cheer Association) held the big competition. After a thrilling warm-up, the cheerleaders waited backstage, anticipating their one chance to showcase the routine they had worked so hard on throughout the season. The team raced out from behind UCA’s famous makeshift castle, shook off their nerves, and left everything behind on the mat when the music began. “I had so much fun on that final performance,” reflects senior Catherine Miranda, “reaching the moment we’d been working towards all year was such a gratifying experience.” The team scored an impressive 25.5/30 (85%) on technique and a remarkable 28.6/30 (95%) on energy/cheer skills. Proudly, the Westmont Cheer coaches applaud the girls’ achievements this season. “The team really set a new, high standard for Westmont Cheer at Nationals and are inspiring the returners and newcomers for next season’s team.”
Click here to watch Westmont Cheer’s performance! (sound is unavailable due to copyright issues)