MISSOULA – More than 300 athletes competed on Sunday in one of the largest cheer competitions in the state and the University of Montana Spirit Squad was there to help.
Spirit Squad Director, Stacey Richards, says this is an event they look forward to helping out with every year.
“To be a part of a college team is a big deal and we love to recruit little athletes who have been to our competition when they were 10 and try out when they’re 18 and freshman in college. So we love that connection,” said Richards.
Participants came from all over Montana and parts of Idaho to compete in group and individual competitions. There were all different ages and skill levels.
The owner of the Montana Storm, Becky Acra, says preparing for this event in the midst of flu season and finals is a balancing act but that her athletes love the energy at the competition.
“I love how at this event all the athletes surround the mat for all the teams. so not just their own teams. It’s pretty cool for the other teams when they’re out there that their rival teams are cheering for them, high school teams are cheering for them. I love that part of this sport,” she said.
Acra says the event is always a great experience for the athletes and they plan on returning to the blue mats again next year.
Reporting by Lauren Heiser for MTN News
