The YISS varsity cheer team and coaches, Ms. Roberts and Mr. Sarao traveled to Chadwick International School for the KAIAC Cheer Competition on February 4. Seven international schools competed, including six varsity and three junior varsity teams. Each team’s routine was judged in three areas: jumps and tumbling, chants and stunts, and dance. While an important chance to show the final skills of the team, the KAIAC competition was only a glance into the effort and determination of our squad this year.

The overall theme to describe this season was “overcoming.” This team faced trials from day one. Trials such as starting the season late and not being able to stunt for the last three seasons. However, this group of athletes was passionate and dedicated. They came to early practices at 6:00 a.m. to use the gym, relearned basic skills, and then advanced them rapidly to be able to compete in the highest level of competition at KAIAC. All their hard work culminated in a hard-earned 3rd place victory. You can watch their winning routine here.

Not only did they excel in their own competition, but they also spent countless hours cheering on the varsity basketball teams. They worked hard to bring the school alive with spirit, decorating windows for each player, cheering students into the building in the morning, and helping to organize the homecoming pep rally. This season was unforgettable and we are already looking forward to next year.