Every moment is choreographed to perfection in the world of cheerleading, where intensity combines with persistence. As the GHS varsity cheer team started on their journey to the National High School Cheer Competition, they had to overcome some obstacles.

“It is the first time ever that Gretna High School has made it to the National High School Cheer Competition,” head coach Sarah Chagnon said. “I could not believe that we did it.”

It was a surprise to the cheerleaders that they made it to Nationals. Chagnon had them all face the other way and then she had them turn around. Once they turned around they saw little bags with Minnie Mouse ears indicating that they had made it. None of them suspected what was going to happen and they were all astonished and excited.

“I am kind of nervous but also really excited,” senior Sierra Miller said. “This is our first year, we have never gone but we have been practicing a ton so I think we are prepared.”

The team had grueling practices every day after school and on Saturday mornings since April of 2023. Along with that work came weight training programs, team camps and choreography. They were hoping that all of the practice would be worth it, and, in the end, and they were satisfied with the results. Some last-minute alterations were made due to recent injuries but that did not stop the team.  

“The cheerleaders worked so hard and they deserved the bid to Nationals,” Chagnon said. “It was really emotional, we were all just so happy.”

The team consists of 21 girls in total, with 11 seniors. They competed Feb. 11 and 12 against the best high school teams across the country. The team’s Game Day routine earned fourth place among more than 1,000 other schools. 

“It felt very rewarding,” senior Brynn Hoellen said. “I was very nervous because the arena that we performed in had lights and we had never performed with spotlights. It was just like another level because we were in Florida competing and not Nebraska.”

They also competed in State on Feb. 15 and placed third in the non-tumbling division and second in Game Day routine. The team is relieved to be done for a while, and many said they feel accomplished with what they have achieved this season. 

The team is looking forward to showcasing their talent on the stage next season. Indescribable memories were made on the mats that will last them a lifetime as they look back on this moment in their life when the GHS varsity cheer team made Nationals and succeeded in State.