The OHS varsity cheerleaders made history in the Missouri Cheer and Dance Association Regional Competition: Missouri Winter Games Championship (MCDA). This competition was the first time any of the OHS cheerleaders got the chance to perform on a competition stage.

The cheerleaders won first place overall in the high school division. They also won the judges’ choice award for best choreography in the entire competition out of 19 teams.

“It felt great to get first because it was our first time competing and it was a way to prove to our school that we are really dedicated and work hard as a team,” said Lindsay Inman (11).

Kassidy Ham (12) placed first in the senior jumps and Carolyn Ream (11) placed second in the senior jumps. Mollie Kohler (12) placed first in senior tumbling.

“It was really exciting! I was super nervous to be in front of that many people by myself, and I felt like I could have done better, but I’m glad I had the experience. I’m looking forward to improving my jumps for next year!” said Ream.

The event took place at Ozark High School in Springfield, Missouri. The girls arrived on Friday afternoon, March 4, and were able to fit in a warm-up and practice before the competition on Saturday.

“Overall it was a great experience and justified all the hard work and many hours they poured into this routine this year,” said coach Ms. Becky Bruning.