The cheerleading squad competed in their first cheer competition at Fayetteville High School on Saturday, Oct. 29. Going into the competition, the girls knew how hard they needed to work, showing people the true sport of cheer. They have been working on the routine since July. The cheer squad practices everyday during fifth period and have about three morning practices each week.
“We have a good routine. It just comes down to hitting our stunts and body position,” said junior Madison Lisle.
At this competition, the Wildcats competed against 12 high schools across the region. Once the competition is over, one team is awarded a trophy for being the best all around team. Fayetteville out scored all the schools and took home the gold.
The Wildcat cheerleading squad had another chance to win because during the competition schools were split up in divisions by the amount of students attending each school. The Lady Wildcats competed against Van Buren High School and Springdale High. The girls had good jumps, tumbling, and stunts, which allowed them to take second place behind Van Buren.
The whole squad participated in the competition, including sophomores. This was the first year sophomores got to participate in the competition. All sophomores felt the excitement and honor, but also felt the pressure of not letting the team down.
“I decided to add the sophomores to the competition because we needed a variety of stunt groups,” said head coach Chantelle Rateliff.
After their first cheer competition, they now know the high expectations of the judges, coaches, and the crowd. Each day the team becomes more of a family and improves in every category.
“After our first competition, it will give us the time and practice to prepare for state,” said Lisle.
The cheerleaders apply leadership and support not just on the mats but also off the mats. It means a lot to them to show school spirit and help everyone get excited about being a Wildcat.
“It means a lot to be on the cheer team because it is a form of leadership, support of all thing, and a lot of fun,” said senior Jordan VanWormer.