Sterling High School recently held its cheerleading tryouts for the 2026-2027 season. From April 20 to the 22, the girls tried out for spots for football cheer, basketball cheer, and the elite competition team.
The first two days were all about learning the material they would be trying out with. Everyone had to learn a high-energy dance routine to “Whine Up” by Kat DeLuna. It was seven eight-counts long, which was definitely a lot to memorize in such a short amount of time. Along with the dance, the girls were taught a specific cheer that they had to perform.
On the final day, the actual tryout was held. The cheerleaders were split into small groups to perform everything in front of the judges. The scoring was based on a point system that covered all the basics they would need for the season, including the dance portion, a floor cheer, and a sideline cheer. They also had to show off their best jumps, like the toe touch, the hurdler, and one extra jump of their choice.
The turnout this year was pretty interesting. There were lots of freshmen and sophomores trying out, however, there were fewer juniors than usual, and nine seniors who are ready to lead this upcoming session.
An upcoming senior, Averielle Molina, is ready to do her best to lead the team. “I always think cheer tryouts are fun but stressful, as a senior this year it is going to be very different as the seniors have a bigger role in planning routines,” shared Molina.
Chloe Hemminger, an upcoming junior, talked about what it was like being back on the blue mats.
“I was a little nervous for tryouts this year, but not nearly as nervous as I’ve been for past years,” she said. “With this being my third year of tryouts, I knew what to expect and kept my confidence lifted. I am super excited about my junior year football cheer season because football season is always the best time of the year!”
Even though tryouts can be super nerve-wracking and stressful, the biggest takeaway is that you just have to stay confident and give it your all. Congrats to everyone who made the team.
The final team for varsity football includes Sawyer Springman, Kenzie Davis, Myla Wendelken, Haley Janssen, Finley Rippy, Reese Escamilla, Emily Wilcox, Romy Kendrick, Molly Papoccia, Alivia Gaffey, Valeria Valdivia, Chloe Hemminger, Ellie Rosengren, Avie Molina, Angelina Washington, Paizley Johnson, and Madison Stevens.
The final team for junior varsity football is Makiyah Harris, Sophia Schueler, Saige Gonzalez, Kaylee Smith, Karsyn Russell, Sophia Sylvester, Evie Watson, Nyaira Yarbrough, Mariah Peterson, Hannah Haeffner, Shylin Nettz, Gabriella Kahn, Eliyana Jones, Nissa Wilson, and Rylie Daehler.
