The varsity co-ed cheerleaders took 7th place at the IHSA State competition on Feb. 3.

Rich Central High School won State this year, taking the title from Lake Park, but that did not put down the Lancers. They practiced six days a week, three hours a day, for nine months in order to be ready to perform just one routine.

Despite the pressure and stress, these cheerleaders were trained to pull off a flawless performance within three minutes. Many of the cheerleaders have a background in tumbling and the safe spotting techniques for landing lifts and flips, taught by coach Samantha Pavesich, play an essential role in their safety.

“Being a top ten finalist is fortunate,” said Pavesich. “I am happy with their performance and happy with the place they received.”

Pavesich believes that the cheerleaders have a very positive attitude despite the pressure put on them.

“At the end of the day, I wanted the [team] to walk off the floor with no would’ves, could’ves or should’ves,” said Pavesich.

Athletic Director Peter Schauer thinks that the cheerleaders’ participation in the competition says something about them as athletes.

"Qualifying for any state competition means that as an athlete, you have reached an elite level in your sport,” said Schauer.

Regardless of the placement in the competition, State is always a memorable experience for the students.

“My favorite aspect of State was the feeling of accomplishment and friendship with all of my teammates,” said sophomore varsity cheerleader Kelli Bayne. “There was no better feeling of unity than when we were at the arena performing.”