CHEER

The Forester cheer team wrapped up their season with a busy weekend. Their first stop was at Mount Vernon for the Crossroads League Cheer Championships. The day consisted of two rounds that were scored together at the end of the competition.

Round one saw the Foresters score 55.07 with zero deductions which accounted for 25 percent of the overall score. Coach Shawnna Esque praised her team’s energy, claiming their stunts hit and tumbling was perfect.

The second round went ever better for the Foresters. They offered even more energy which included freshman Lindsay Johnson showcasing a new skill for the last competition that hit beautifully. Accounting for 75 percent of the overall score, HU received a score of 56.07.

Turning a score higher than last year, the team placed 8th among their league peers with a mark of 55.817.

While still at MVNU’s Ariel Arena, Huntington received notification from their virtual competition, hosted by DTU, that they took first place in the NAIA All- Girl Competition with a score of 54.03.

Esque’s team rounded out the day by making it back to campus in time to cheer on the Forester men’s basketball team in second round action of the NAIA National Tournament.

“I am truly proud of these ladies. Our goal for this season was to improve every competition and to end our season higher than last year and that was accomplished,” said Esque. “With a small team, it is hard on their bodies to push through every stunt and every tumbling pass. They have improved as a team, and they improved as individuals.

“These ladies were able to find confidence in themselves, when others doubted them. We had several people in new positions this season and they worked so hard to make sure their teammates were proud of them. For our second year as a competitive NAIA team, there is still more to learn, but these ladies are truly making an impact on the program and leaving a legacy behind.

Esque went on to express her appreciation for her three seniors. “Raegan Cochran, Hannah Ratton and Morgan Stout will truly be missed on our team. They have given so much to this program to help guide it in this way. I am so thankful for their leadership over the years. They have been a true blessing to this program.”