After years of energizing the sidelines, Miami Palmetto Senior High’s cheerleading team is stepping up its game. This year, MPSH announced the addition of a competitive cheerleading team alongside its spirit squad. For the first time in MPSH’s history, cheerleaders will take their skills beyond countless sports games to compete in regional competitions. This bold new chapter in the school’s cheerleading history is expected to be an exhilarating journey.
Until now, the cheerleading team has been known for bringing energy and school spirit to the stands at football and basketball games. While the spirit cheerleaders have long been the heart of school events, the introduction of competitive cheerleading marks a significant shift. The competitive cheerleading team faces a whole new set of challenges, from perfecting complex stunts to mastering high-energy routines that are judged at competitions.
The rigorous training required for this new team has pushed these athletes to new heights. With hours of practice dedicated to tumbling, stunting and choreography, the team has embraced the demanding shift from supporting teams on the sidelines to striving for victory on the competition floor.
“Competitive cheerleading is about [precision], teamwork and performance,” spirit and competitive cheerleading coach Nina Pozo said. “No matter if you’re a rookie or a veteran, just try out. Cheerleading has shaped who I am — it is what made me, me. It built my dedication, drive and commitment.”
As the competitive cheerleading team makes its debut at competitions, the members’ level of commitment and focus grows. While the spirit cheerleaders remain dedicated to supporting the school’s sports teams, the competitive team has adopted a new mindset: winning titles. Their practice sessions are more intense, often lasting hours as athletes refine their routines. Every tumble, stunt and formation must be executed with precision, and each cheerleader’s dedication must be evident when performing.
“To be a part of this team, you need to have time management to be able to stay on top of your grades and your routine, but it’s also completely worth it,” sophomore competitive and spirit cheerleader Victoria Andre said.
The competitive cheerleading team is not only focused on winning, but also on building camaraderie among its members and fostering a sense of unity with the spirit squad. Even though the two cheerleading squads have different focuses, there is no rivalry between them. In fact, the competition team has taken pride in knowing that the MPSH spirit team is succeeding alongside them. As the competitive cheerleading program continues to develop, anticipation for upcoming competitions is building. The team is set to compete against other schools in the region and many students are eager to see whether their dedication will pay off.
