Cheer and Dance Shine at State
Cheer and Dance Shine at State
by Alyson Garcia
PHS cheerleaders and dancers and performed at the State Cheer and Dance competition Saturday, February 21, in Grand Island. Cheer placed 8th out of 15, and dance placed for each dance they performed. High kick placed 5th out of six, and pom was 14th out of 17.
Seven cheerleaders and eight dancers represented each team PHS brought this weekend. The seven cheerleaders were freshmen Brianna Furstenau and alternate Kristina Gutman; sophomore Ellie Moeller; juniors Alexa Douglass, Jessica DeGroff, Olivia Steffensen; and seniors Hannah Higgins, Caitlyn Skuodas and Tristen Sell. Dancers were sophomores Shianna Oestreich; juniors Alexa Douglass, Alexis Behmer, Olivia Steffensen, Jessica DeGroff and alternates Kaylee Dankert and Shelby Ronspies; and seniors Hannah Higgins, Paige Spieker, and Tristen Sell.
The cheerleaders performed a two and a half minute routine, while the dancers performed two separate pom and kick dances. Both were then evaluated by judges to determine placings.
This contest ended the competition seasons for both the cheerleaders and dancers. Both teams faced obstacles leading up to state, including injuries that affected both teams.
“This dance season has been very challenging with many ups and downs,” said head dance coach Kristine Muir. “Even with injuries, this year's girls pushed themselves beyond the breaking point. I couldn't be more proud of their performance at the state competition. Their first performance was not strong, but they did not let that dictate their second performance. They nailed it! They should be very proud of all their perseverance throughout the year."
