Cheer teams across northern Illinois gathered this past weekend for Huntley’s annual “Sweetheart” competition. Consisting of 121 teams, Huntley’s cheer program had to put in the work to ensure it ran smoothly.
“To set up, parents and athletes came the day before and everyone was required to be there,” cheerleader Jillian Houston said. “We broke into groups and everyone contributed with different tasks like setting up mats and decorating.”
It took so much consideration in each part for an easy process of setting up, but that meant they had to begin preparing for the mat.
“Our team typically stands in a little clump and hypes each other up until we have to go on,” cheerleader Olivia Naydenoff said. “We often remind each other of corrections from our coaches and encourage each other that we can do it.”
Both JV teams approach the mat, holding hands with their teammates in pride. Red, black, and white uniforms catch the crowd’s eyes as they hit their stunts to the best of their ability and cheer loudly.
“When I’m performing, I like to remember basic things like squeezing my body in the air, smiling, and more,” Huntley cheerleader Jenna Rechul said. “I remember to my best ability to give my all in the 2-3 minutes that we have.”
Through whichever outcome of the team’s routine that they get, they boldly end their routine with an exciting and crowd appealing dance. With this, their coaches and parents match their energy.
Huntley varsity cheer has experienced a season with more challenges than expected, but they had faith in their home mat to give it their all. The room instantly fills even more faith as everyone wants to watch them.
Varsity walks out to “Bring Em’ Out” by T.I., opens their routine, and doesn’t disappoint. With tumbling, jumps, stunts, and dancing, they make an advanced routine look almost effortless with smiles and sparkly uniforms.
For the final performances of the competition, Huntley Cheer Association and Illinois State University performed an engaging exhibition.
JV A took 1st place, and JV B took 2nd for this competition! Be sure to meet Huntley cheer at their sectional event next weekend on Jan 31 at Dundee Crown High School.
