On November 5, 2016, our Hillgrove Hawks competition cheer team won first in the regional cheer competition. The following weekend, they won sixth overall at the GHSA Cheerleading State Championships.The team consists of girls from all four grade levels.
Junior, Korie Pillow, explains, “Our biggest competitors are usually Lambert High School or South Forsyth High School. They are always really clean and consistent. The biggest challenge this season has been with injuries. Whenever anyone gets hurt, whether it’s long or short term, we have to change our whole routine including formations and stunt groups.”
Senior, Tori Wise, reflected on this season saying, “The freshmen and sophomores on our team have adjusted very well to the rigor of practicing and competing on this team.When we won region, I felt so accomplished because it was a long road getting there. We had to memorize so many changes for our routine, and it all paid off. It has been such a great season and I’m so happy I got the chance to cheer competitively before I go off to college.”
The team is coached by Scott East, Jennifer Sayer, and Jennifer Spiegal. The captains are seniors Sidney Tilton and Anna Sayer. They have cheered on varsity sidelines and competition for all four years of high school. Sidney Tilton emphasized the effects of teamwork on this season’s success, “This season has been unlike any other. We really came together as a family and bonded. We’ve created so many great memories in these few, short months that I will always remember. Honestly… We’re fye!”
Anna Sayer adds,”This season definitely had a lot of obstacles, but we were able to overcome them and still finish out strong. I can't believe the season is over!”
Tryouts for the 2017-18 Hillgrove cheerleading sideline and competition teams will be held in the Spring.