With a perfect score in three categories and no deductions on their routine, St. Dominic’s varsity cheerleaders placed first in the recent NCA competition. With virtually an all-new squad, the team has worked hard from the start of the season to get where they are today.

The competition was held at the St. Charles Family Arena on January 18. The coaches and squad have been preparing this routine since November. Figuring out the stunts and how their routine would work was a challenge, but it paid off in the end. The team puts a lot of hard work and dedication into what they do and preparing for competition at this level was a new experience for most of the girls.

“The girls’ dedication and watching them when they really nail their stunts is the best part of coaching. Really, just seeing their excitement and watching all of their hard work pay off is the best,” said Coach Molly Molitor.

The squad will be preparing for their next competition with this same team spirit. They are going to be placed at a higher level with different restrictions, which allows them to perform stunts with a higher difficulty level.

“Performing in a different category is exciting because we will be able to do new stunts that will be challenging and fun to practice,” said Brynn Murray.

This will enable them to take chances on their routine. Molitor is expecting to up the ante and improve the routine now that one competition is over.

“The team has been working hard every practice. Now that we have one competition under our belt, we are going to continue to work on improving and stay focused until the next competition,” said Molitor.

The cheerleaders’ next competition is in February and they are hoping to bring the same determination and fire that they brought last time.