By Mason Vargas
Stunts soaring in the sky, tumbling all around, and school spirit—Westmont’s Traditional Competition Cheer (TCC) team is in the middle of another amazing season! With competitions underway and nationals approaching soon, the Warriors continue to showcase their talent, hard work, and spirit on the mat.
Unlike sideline cheer, TCC features full routines performed at Saturday competitions. Teams travel to the venue, warm up, perform on the mat, and wait for the awards ceremonies until the end of the meet. Traditional routines are emphasized by stunting and tumbling, with a singular cheer integrated into the routine. Westmont also competes in Gameday routines, which are characterized by energizing the crowd through chants, sidelines, and dances. This year, the team is collaborating with the Westmont Dance Team for Gameday performances.
Last season, the program underwent great success, as both JV and Varsity teams qualified for nationals in the Traditional and Gameday divisions; however, narrowly missed finals by just a few points. Cambria “Cami” Kelly highlighted the team’s strength in unity this year as they prepare and aim to continue raising the bar. “Since we only have a Varsity team this year, we have super talented people from all grades in one superb team, and our team spirit is always so strong,” Cami said. Competitions have gone well so far, even as the Warriors have often competed alone in their division. Cami shared her favorite part of being on the team, being the people, adding, “This sport requires so much trust, and I really love the people I get to work with.” Cami added that while she enjoys both routines, Traditional remains her favorite due to the increased stunting and tumbling. However, she noted that performing the Gameday routine alongside the dance team has increased excitement and energy in performances. Leadership continues to guide the team, with Morgan Wallace and Hana Tomita serving as Traditional captains, and Jeslyn Winters, Anja Gustafson, and Breanna Sullivan captaining Gameday. The team will head to nationals on February 4, ready to showcase the hard work they’ve put into their season! Wish them luck!