Hanford cheer squad repeats as state champion

DAVIS -- Super Bowl Sunday was especially super for the Hanford High varsity competition cheer team.

Hanford not only won its second consecutive state cheer championship by placing first among 36 schools in the varsity division, the Bullpups were also declared grand champions for posting the highest overall score among 90 teams.

"They did a really good job,'' said Gina Lewis, the team's coach and advisor. "They were really excited to win state. But when they were announced as grand champions, they were just ecstatic.''

Lewis said the team members were highly appreciative of support they received from individuals who gave up watching the Super Bowl to cheer the team on.

Many of the cheers came from members of the Hanford High boys basketball team.

"We support them, and in return they came and supported us,'' Lewis added. "They had shirts made and everything.''

Competition -- which requires precision as well as agility -- can be nerve-wracking experience.

"They felt confident in their routine, but if there's one mistake, you can't win first place,'' Lewis said.

Hanford will next try to land a repeat national championship March 7-9 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Because the Bullpups were champions in the Novice division last year, they have been moved up to the Intermediate level.

Hanford works on its competition routine with choreographer in practice, with few observers on hand.

"The public doesn't get to see our routine,'' Lewis said. "But we'll be performing for the public Wednesday at the Hanford-Hanford West game.''

Team members are Ale Weisser, Alyssa Roberts, Anaise Breshears, Bianca Betancourt, Carlee Graham, Courtney Leach, Danee Hall-Sisson, Julianne Little, Justine Feleppa, Katie Begin, Lauren Banker, Marissa Rasey, Marissa Skaggs, Megan Dodd, Meghan Henshaw and Timerie Verhoeven.

(Feb. 5, 2008)