Sikeston cheerleaders take second at state competition

COLUMBIA -- The Sikeston High School cheerleaders took second place in the 3A small division at the State Cheerleading Competition in Columbia on Oct. 4.

"This was a big year for us with lots of changes and a few hurdles to overcome," said coach Jaclyn Scott. "We competed in a new division and quickly realized there was lots of tough competition. We knew we had our work cut out for us."

The cheerleaders qualified for state at regional competition this summer. A huge change for the program was Wanda Throops' retirement.

"She is a phenomenal coach who gave 40 years of service and will always be remembered, not just at Sikeston but in all of Missouri cheerleading," Scott said. "We cannot accept this honor without giving credit to her, the traditions she established, and the hours of mentoring I received working under her the past several years."

Scott said one of the biggest hurdles the team faced this year was mentally overcoming the mistakes of their past few competitions.

"It has been a few competitions past that we could walk off those blue mats and know we did our best but as of 3:41p.m. on Oct. 4 that all changed," Scott said. "This squad pulled together, put their nerves aside, and competed with all their hearts. They left it all on the mats and it paid off. The girls hit a perfect routine, stuck all their stunts, and received no penalties.

"As a coach I would not change one thing. They did exactly what I asked them do and then some. I am extremely proud of them. I would also like to thank the community for all the support they have given us and to those who were able to be in Columbia to cheer us on we truly appreciate it."

Three girls earned all-state recognition through the Missouri Cheer Coaches Association: Morgan Krokstrom, Lauren Eby, and Sarah Martin. This is the first year Missouri has recognized all-state athletes in cheerleading so this is a great accomplishment.