Congratulations to the Bishop O'Connell varsity cheerleading squad who claimed the national title in the Large Varsity division at the 2014 Christian Cheerleaders of America (CCA) Cheer Nationals held in Winston-Salem, N.C. on Mar. 7-8. Cheerleading teams from more than 20 states were represented at this event.
The competition started off with a bang for the O'Connell cheerleaders in the stunt competition. O'Connell formed two stunt teams to compete in the Varsity division and both delivered stellar performances, finishing second and third overall.
This set the stage for Friday's first round of the Large Varsity cheer division. The O'Connell squad scored a 92 out of 100 in this preliminary round.
"Our team had a near flawless routine," said Head Coach Lacey Jacobsen. "This gave them a definite edge and added confidence going into Saturday's finals."
In the final round, O'Connell's performance did not disappoint, and the squad won first place and the national title in the Large Varsity division.
"Their enthusiasm, confidence and pride shined through in every stunt, tumbling pass, cheer and jump," remarked Jacobsen. "The sense of accomplishment showed on each of their faces when they walked off the mat. What a perfect way to end this season!"
What's next? The team will say goodbye to and honor seniors, Julia Lisbeth, Tilly Mubiru, Alexa Saffelle, Tori Van Horne, and Grace Young at the year-end banquet. Then they will begin practicing and preparing for tryouts and next year.
"Our goal is to continue to grow as a program, increase our skill level and to compete again at the national level," said Coach Jacobsen.
Pictured below - Varsity cheerleaders celebrate their national championship at the CCA award ceremony on Mar. 8.
