To help prepare Dallas ISD cheer squads for the UIL State Spirit Competition in January, more than 400 cheerleaders from 20 schools honed their skills at the Cheer Challenge that was held recently at Ellis Davis Field House.
Hosted by the Student Activities Department, the Second Annual Cheer Challenge mimicked the UIL Spirit State Championship Finals and included cheer squads outside of Dallas ISD. The Cheer Challenge followed the Cheer Showdown hosted in October. Together, these events gave the cheer teams exposure to fast-paced cheer competitions, and constructive critiques and feedback to improve their performances.
Lincoln High School Cheer Coach Danielle Sanders said the Cheer Challenge and Cheer Showdown greatly benefited her team that placed first at the competition.
“The benefits of the Cheer Showdown and Cheer Challenge are that they teach lifelong lessons,” Coach Sanders said. They teach things that can be applied to everyday life. Cheerleaders are able to excel at things outside of cheerleading due to their strong work ethic, drive, and determination.”
“The Student Activities Department goal is to provide Dallas ISD cheerleaders with more opportunities to experience competition,” Student Activities Coordinator Christina Martinez said. “Through the Cheer Challenge and Cheer Showdown, our cheerleaders will be better prepared to excel at the UIL state competition.”
The winners of the December Cheer Challenge are:
6A Division 1 and 6A Division 2
First Place: W.T. White High School
Second Place: Molina High School
Third Place: Skyline High School
5A Division 1 and 5A Division 2
First Place: Sunset High School
Second Place: Woodrow Wilson High School
Third Place: Bryan Adams High School
3A and 4A
First Place: Lincoln High School
Second Place: China Spring High School
Third Place: Hillcrest High School
