When one thinks of cheer, he or she may think of Friday nights, football, and touchdowns, but being a cheerleader is so much more. Behind the scenes, these girls put in hard work, practicing every day for their own competitions. Now all their work has paid off and the UIL Cheer squad will compete at Nationals next week in Florida.
Last month, they competed in the UIL State Spirit Competition and placed ninth out of several other schools across the state of Texas.
“We prepared for state by practicing daily and having a strong work ethic and determination,” senior co-captain Brooklyn Elliott said.
According to senior co-captain Sofia Harrison, her favorite memory from this season was the night before the cheerleaders performed at the State competition.
“We got all dressed up and went into downtown Fort Worth for dinner and to spend time with each other,” Harrison said. “At the end of the night, we headed back to the hotel and surprised each other downstairs.”
According to sophomore Madison Loupe, her mindset going into State was to be proud, no matter the outcome, and to have fun.
“I think the team performed well and am proud of all we’ve accomplished,” Loupe said.
Like many other team sports, cheerleading is a bonding experience. They spend a lot of their time together and make many memories along the way.
“One thing I’ll miss the most is the moment right before we perform, we huddle together and encourage each other and lift each other up before we step out onto the mat,” Elliott said.
For the seniors graduating this year, competing in Disney next week will be their last competition with their high school team.
“I will miss all the memories and friendships made throughout the years,” Harrison said.
The cheerleaders will have a showoff tonight at 6:30 p.m. in the Grove gym and will depart for Nationals in Florida on Friday.
