This past Saturday, November 15, the Leesville Varsity Co-ed cheerleading team dominated the mat at the NCHSAA Cheerleading State Championship competition.
The team, full of excitement and nerves, traveled downtown to the Raleigh Convention Center; their goal, however, was not focused on winning but on having fun while showing off all their hard work. They did just that. Walking off the mat and into awards, the team felt proud and pleased with their performance.
“While waiting for the awards to be announced, my entire team and I were anticipating our second place trophy, but when we were all surprised with the announcement of our first place win, we couldn’t help but cry tears of joy. Even though our team was the underdog, we managed to hit a solid routine, and we are now the number one Co-ed team in North Carolina,” said Noaam Zahavi, senior varsity cheerleader.
Getting there, however, wasn’t easy. Endless hours spent practicing through bruises, sore bodies and aching muscles had finally paid off.
“We practiced every day for two and a half hours, where we pushed ourselves and continued to improve our skills,” said Zahavi. “Competing is the one place where its all about us: the cheerleaders. We dont have to cheer for football or basketball players and we’re given two minutes and thirty seconds to show off how amazing we really are!”
Transitioning into basketball season, the Varsity Co-ed cheerleading team doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. They will continue to work hard as they prepare for their next competition on December 13 at Athens Drive High School.
