Costa Cheer competed in SoCal regional championships in two divisions on Nov. 9 at Costa, earning a regional title and a bid to compete at the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) National Championships in Orlando, Florida. In the Super-Large Game Day division, 30 members of the Costa cheer squad competed and the team scored a 91, finishing in second place and qualifying for nationals. In the medium non-tumbling division with 19 members, Costa cheer scored 82.8, also placing second and earning a nationals bid.
“We have been working on both of these routines since summer and for us to accomplish so much within the very first competition of the season is extremely rewarding,” junior and varsity cheerleader Kylie Cullen said. “It really boosted our confidence as a team and made all of the long hours very worth it.”
The team prepared by training and focusing on skill and unity. According to Cullen, the team dedicates
countless hours to master routines as well as supporting one another through the demands of the season.
“Each year brings a new routine, team, and often first-time competitors, so results aren’t immediate,” Cullen said. “We’re motivated by our shared excitement for the end result, finding support and trust in each other.”
According to senior Kaylie Fenton, the team’s success at Regional’s was extremely fulfilling. Fenton believes that the seniors have truly left a long-lasting mark on the cheer program. Their bond as a class and perseverance is what drives their performance.
“Cheer is such a team sport and especially during competitions we are scored as a group and not individually,” Fenton said. “So it is important that we all inspire each other to be the best that we
can.”
Last season, Costa cheer achieved impressive placements at Nationals, and they’re excited to return
this season with even higher goals. The team is determined to aim for first place, believing their capability and dedication can make it a reality.
“The team came very close to taking first place at regional’s,” cheer coach Travis Neese said. “We need to focus on being sharp, executing each skill with perfection and staying healthy, both physically and mentally.”
“The team practices four to five days a week after sideline preparation for football, basketball and other school and community events,” Neese explained. “We compete at one regional, two showcases, CIF Southern Section championship, and a state championship prior to the National Championship
in Orlando, Florida.”
Neese also notes the team is enthusiastic to return to practice and continue refining their routines. This year, the team has moved into a new division with more teams and higher skill expectations, pushing them toward even greater levels of technical expertise.
“As a team we are extremely excited to get back to work,” Fenton said. “Our goal as a team is to walk away from competition season knowing we did our best and performed our best every time. As a senior it’s hard to believe this is my last year with this team, but I can’t wait to make every second count!”
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