Wahkiakum cheer takes second at WIAA State Championships

Last Saturday at the WIAA State Cheerleading Championships at Battle Ground High School, Wahkiakum High School's cheer team took second overall in 1A competition. Being the only 1B school at the event, Wahkiakum competed in both the 2B and 1A Small Gameday division against six other schools. The only team to emerge from the competition higher than Wahkiakum was 1A State Champion Cascade Christian. In order to qualify, Wahkiakum needed to achieve minimum scores at WSCCA (Washington State Cheer Coaches Association) sanctioned competitions throughout the season. The team earned a score of 70.1 on Saturday, Dec. 6, and a score of 88.8 on Saturday, Jan. 24.

"The competition was tough, especially considering WHS had the smallest team in the division," said Coach Kaitlyn Kincaid. "Just five cheerleaders took the mat for Wahkiakum, while other teams competed with as many as 15 athletes. Despite the numbers, the WHS cheerleaders delivered a confident, high-energy performance."

The cheer team consisted of senior Rylie Wills; juniors Ayla Adams, Emily Robinson, and RayLynne Ogle; and sophomore Marley McPherson. All five team members are "veterans," having also competed together last season. Along with Kincaid on the coaching staff were Assistant Coach Alysse Weiler and Volunteer Coach Braydon Finkas.

"I am extremely proud of how our cheerleaders stayed focused, confident, and composed under pressure," said Kincaid. "They left everything on the mat, and this second-place finish is a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the season. The team faced several obstacles, including being the smallest team at the competition and competing against programs with significantly more resources. Throughout the season, one of the team's mottos leading up to state was 'small team, big presence,' a mindset the cheerleaders fully embraced. Their energy, enthusiasm, and excitement helped engage the crowd and showcased their strong performance skills. Placing second at state in the program's first-ever state appearance, in only the second season of competition, reflects the drive, resilience, and determination of the WHS cheer team. The athletes represented Wahkiakum with pride and made a memorable mark on the state stage."