The announcer called out to welcome Mercy High School. As the large crowd was clapping and cheering, my team and I ran gleaming to the blue mat. Little did the crowd know that our stomachs were filled with thousands of fluttering butterflies. For over 75% of the team, this was our very first competition. Though the music struggled to connect to the speakers, we proceeded to smile, jump, and wave until it was finally our time to really shine.

This past weekend, the Monarchs Competition Cheerleading Squad competed at our first two competitions. At both the Ralston Trailblazer Competition and the Midland University Cheer and Dance Festival, the Monarchs proudly took second place! Our team has been practicing our routine at least once a week since first semester and we are confident for our success in the nearby future. We are absolutely thrilled to perform again this coming weekend at the Millard West Jam the Gym Cheer Showcase, and quickly approaching, the Nebraska State Competition in Grand Island.

The Monarch Dance Team also competed Sunday at Midland University coming in first place! Additionally, seniors Emma Daley, Hannah Elliot, and Macy Lakeman were awarded dance scholarships from the college! The team will showcase their routines a next and final time at state as well.

So far, both teams’ hours of diligent work and admirable skills have been visible throughout rehearsals and performances. With the aid of critiques from each competition’s judges, both teams have been able to perfect their routines and grow together. I am beyond speechless over how far my team and I personally have come since our very first practice, and I cannot wait for many more memories and awards in the future.

Come support the Mercy cheerleaders on February 6th and 17th and the Mercy dancers on February 18th!