Due to a miscommunication with dates, materials, and a lack of funds, the Tyrone Area High School Cheerleaders will not participate in competition cheer this year.
The girls were planning to host a competition sometime in January or March, but according to Athletic Director Luke Rhoades, the gym is not available on any of the same dates that the floor covering needed to host cheer events is also available.
Not many other details were shared through interviews with coaches and players, other than the fact none of it is the athlete’s fault.
According to the cheerleaders, many issues took place within the coaching and boosters which unfortunately held the girls back. Despite several attempts, it was difficult to get specific facts about the situation. However, the athletes and parents were willing to share their opinions.
The girls had been preparing for the event for months, and many were upset that the season was canceled.
“I am extremely disappointed, but I understand the reason behind it. It is my senior year, so it’s been tough,” senior cheer captain Kasey Daughenbaugh said.
This will be the first time in many years that the team has not hosted a competition.
For the three senior cheerleaders, the news was especially disappointing.
This setback was a significant blow to the team’s morale. However, the team said they remain hopeful and committed to showcasing their skills in future competitions.
Another disappointment for the underclassmen is that without the money raised by hosting a competition, they may not be able to attend their annual Pine Forest UCA cheer camp next summer.
The camp costs $500 per team member, which is usually covered in part by hosting a competition. Without this fundraiser, the team will struggle to raise the $6,000 necessary to attend the camp.
This will hold them back in many ways, as the camp is also where they learn most of their routines.
“It’s fair to say that none of them saw this coming, but they are all determined to get through it together,” said assistant coach Tiffany VanAllman.
The girls are currently working hard to find new ways to raise money.
They worked at the Lights in the Park event on Saturday, December 7th. There have also been conversations about the idea of hosting a dance as well. However, they are still brainstorming together other ways throughout the season to bring in money.
With this major letdown, some team members are concerned that there will not be enough athletes to field a cheer squad next season.
The girls have already lost team member Sierra Gurekovich this season as of December 19th.
The girls have come a long way since the beginning of the year, and the fact that they are once again dealing with barriers proves how strong they truly are.
“Being able to adjust quickly to many setbacks is an important factor in life,” said parent Samantha Barnes. “The girls may be upset with this devastating news, but it’s undoubted they have learned how to work through hardships with their heads held high.”
All sports teach you more than love for a game. They help to build people for plenty of other things in life.
“Although the decision to withdraw from the competition season this year is final, there is still hope for next season,” said head coach Skylar Rudasill.
Daughenbaugh hopes that the underclassmen can find a way to get back to their camp next year, and she has some advice for them if they do.
“If you attend camp next year, take advantage of it, work hard, and have fun. Having fun is all that matters,” Daughenbaugh said.
