Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

Cimarron cheerleaders recognized for state championship

Cimarron cheerleading

Richard Brian

Cimarron-Memorial cheerleading captain Kaeleigh Peterman, left, hands over the 4A state championship trophy to principal Karen Stanley during a pep rally honoring the 16-member squad Thursday.

If there's one place where enthusiasm is in abundance, it's at a cheerleader pep rally.

Lauded today by its school for perfect spirit and stunts, the Cimarron-Memorial High School varsity cheer team celebrated its win over 17 other schools at the Nevada Interscholastic Athletic Association annual tournament with a pep rally and luncheon. The teens took the top title Feb. 28 at the state cheerleading championship.

This is the team's second straight year as state champs.

These are athletes who do air stunts and dance routines for up to 20 hours a week. But today is their day off. The talk around the lunch table went like this, while watching a film of their big win: You looked good there. That basket catch was perfect. They encouraged one another. That formation was awesome.

And other students think these cheerleaders are awesome, too.

"They won some big thing, so that's good and it's good we recognize them," said 14-year-old freshman Jonquille Anderson at the cafeteria pep rally.

Team member Nicole Gray has the responsibility of making sure that things don't come crashing down around her. She throws Angela Grieco, 17, in the air and then makes sure she doesn't hit the ground. Upbeat dance songs, such as those by hip-hop singer Akon, keep her focused.

The team won the state title, and first place in the show-cheer division, which includes stunts, and second in the pom division, dancing only.

"These girls are so excited and pleased to have won," said Coach Becky Coyle. "They worked really hard."

Becky Bosshart can be reached at 990-7748 or [email protected].

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