The Apalachee High School competition cheerleading team finished second at region Saturday, runner-up behind only Loganville High School.
“The scores between the second, third and fourth place teams (AHS, Flowery Branch and Heritage) were extremely close, but we walked away knowing we had given everything and were rewarded for it,” said coach Meridith Wages. “Last Monday, we sat down and created goals for the week. We decided that we would accept nothing less than first or second place at region.”
AHS practiced with the Winder-Barrow High School Cheer Doggs Friday, bringing a strong week of practice to an end, Wages said. (WBHS competes in the co-ed division.)
“We were ready,” the coach said. “Saturday, we had an amazing warm-up, bursting with confidence and energy — they were fired up. It was amazing to see the girls motivating each other and reminding themselves to do what it takes to get through that 2 ½ minutes they were on the floor together. It was evident that they believed in themselves and this was our main goal as a coaching staff this year.”
The Cheer Cats went out and performed an almost flawless routine, their coach said.
“We knew we had done well, but the excitement demonstrated as the fourth place team was revealed, and then the third place team, and then us, was incredible,” Wages said. “The kids couldn’t believe it. They were finally able to feel a tangible reward for all their hard work. It was a nice feeling for all. We screamed, jumped, laughed, and cried with complete excitement. It was one of those days you will never forget — a moment in time that makes it all worth it.”
The Cheer Cats plan to continue working on timing and cleanliness of their routine this week. The team will set new goals and will have a performance practice with the Cheerdoggs again Wednesday afternoon.
AHS will compete Friday morning at sectionals in Columbus.
“Our girls are completely capable of pressing through if the attitude of accepting no defeat continues,” Wages said.
