On January 4th, the UHS Varsity Competition Cheer Team attended Rosen Shingle Creek Resort to compete for the FCC High School Nationals. This event had made a significant impact on the team as they showcased their talent, determination and teamwork on a national stage.
Rosen Shingle Creek is known for their world class facilities, providing an exciting day for the Varsity Cheer Team for the FCC High School Nationals. Teams across from the states such as California, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Washington travelled to the Resort for the FCC High School Nationals. Each team brought amazing routines and performances for the competition.“Competing at the national level is alway a challenge and an hour. FCC Nations is held at Rosen each year, it is such a beautiful resort so competing there is always top notch,” said Coach Sterner. Coach Sterner had prepared for this event and all competitions began from day one of summer camp. The team finds strengths, learns skills and begins working on a routine to both enhance and showcase those skills.
When the team first arrived at Rosen Shingle Creek they had a little spot where they could have a sweet pep talk to each other as a team before nationals. The girls were able to roam around the hotel for a little bit after check-in, while also getting something to eat before warmups. The process of their warm ups is that there are three mats, the first one is where they can practice their jumps and stunts, the second mat is where they will practice their pyramid stunts. The last mat is where they do their full routine, going full out and fixing any last minute mistakes before the competition. After warm ups, they went backstage and waited their turn before doing their main dance routine. The cheerleaders also had a hip hop routine with different uniforms. The FCC Nationals is a christian-based organization, so before they went on stage they were given a chance to pray with staff.
The UHS Varsity Cheer Team received first place in both routines and won the overall grand champion title. “Being a part of this team for the last 4 years and coming towards the end with a grand champion title is the most rewarding feeling. I am forever grateful for these years,” said senior Ashley Guisao. This competition has given the team an opportunity to showcase their skills on stage. “Coaching this year’s team has been a true pleasure. They work hard, they are very coachable and their talent is undeniable,” said Sterner. An inspiring quote from the cheerleading coach to the team to inspire them in challenging moments is “Don’t wish for it – Work for it”
