The Tyrone Golden Eagle cheerleading squad attended the Mountain League Competition in Bald Eagle on February 8, 2014 and received third place.

“The girls work hard all year.  This is what they are working for. It’s important for them to have a forum to showcase the progress they’ve made throughout the season,” Head Coach Kera Walk stated.

After competing in the same competition last year, the team won first place and the judges’ choice award. Receiving third place at this year’s competition was a heartbreaker for the squad.

“[I was] very disappointed in the judging,” said Walk, “We will not be competing in this competition next year for that reason because of the unfair and biased decisions that were made against our squad.”

The Mountain League Competition differs from the others because of the judging and regulations.

Sophomore Beth Hunter stated that the rules are much different from other competitions and that they actually bring in professional judges in to judge the competition.

However, the team has kept their heads high with the encouragement of their four junior captains, Olivia Dickson, Sierra Morrison, Samantha McClucas, and Lauren Patterson, and they are excited to compete once again on March 16.

“[My goal is] to do our best and have fun. Winning would be fantastic but as long as we try our best that’s all I could ask for,” stated by Lauren Patterson, winter captain along with another junior Samantha McClucas.

Patterson also added that these competitions are a great learning experience and that you get to see how other teams are and have a whole town that is supporting you.

“Although we suffer harsh results from our last competition, I was very proud of the girls effort and I believe we will have a better chance at the Jaffa Competition.” said Walk.

The team plans to compete at the competition in late March.  They are currently making changes to improve their style, technique, and difficulty after the scores they received at Bald Eagle’s contest.

It is not yet known when and where the competition will be held, but the six freshman, five sophomores and five juniors are all ready and prepared to redeem themselves on March 16, 2014.