Several talented student-athletes from Manitowoc Lincoln High School will realize a lifelong dream come true on Friday as they perform at the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championships in Orlando, Florida.
The Lincoln Cheer squad scored 81.6 in a Game Day virtual qualifier against more than 100 other squads back in December, securing their place in school history.
Head Coach Jessica Gomm tells SeehaferNews.com that it all still seems a bit surreal.
“For myself, thrills and I’ve spoken to the girls, reminding them that they’ve set a legacy and it’s their responsibility to carry it forward for future athletes to build upon,” she noted.
Senior Emma Burgar has been involved in cheering basically her whole life.
“We’re going to nationals because of all the hard work we’ve put in,” she said. “I’ve been involved in cheer for 10 years, and this trip to nationals has literally been a dream of mine since I was a little girl.”
Junior Maddy Koepe adds that her teammates are basically members of her extended family.
“I’m excited to go with this group of girls as they have a special place in my heart,” she explained. “I love how much we’ve grown together, and I can’t wait to show the world what Lincoln varsity cheer is all about.”
Game Day Cheer mimics a real sporting event, focusing on sideline spirit and crowd engagement, featuring elements such as band chants, situational responses, cheers, and fight songs.
The girls will perform a routine that includes a band dance with two cheers and the Lincoln School Song that will last approximately three and a half minutes.
Friday is a culmination of countless hours of practice that began in August, and freshman Fiona Martell says it’s all worth it.
“To make it (to nationals) my first year is just honestly crazy,” she admitted. “There’s no doubt that all the hard work we’ve put in has paid off.”
For freshman Sophia Gomez, she’ll get to check plenty off her bucket list.
“I get two opportunities of a lifetime, ride on rollercoasters and perform at nationals,” she said with a smile. “There might even be some frozen yogurt in Orlando that will definitely help me perform to the best of my ability.”
Coach Gomm says that “this season has been filled with growth, grit, and teamwork and our cheerleaders are proud to represent Lincoln on a national stage,” and added, “I want them to me able to make lifetime memories proving to themselves that all the work they’ve put in paid off. If they do that, we’ll live with the results no matter the score.”
Lincoln is scheduled to take the stage at around 11:30 a.m. local time,ime and you can catch their performance online at VarsityTV.com.
