The UHS varsity competitive cheerleaders showed high spirits during the first competition of the new season.

“Being a part of the team is intense, but it feels great to accomplish,” junior Grace Medlin said. “It’s very rewarding.”

On December 11th, the team came together for the MAC Crossover at Eisenhower High school with a routine landing them in 4th place.

“I love cheer because of the energy of the crowd cheering for us at competitions,” sophomore Mariah Vantroostenberghe said.

Coaches Michelle Delekta and Brieanna Mershman made sure the girls were well prepared and confident with regular weekday practices from 6:00pm-8:00pm and occasional gymnastics from 2:30pm-4:30pm.

“I decided to start coaching cheerleading because I was a Utica cheerleader my 10th-12th grade years,” coach Michelle Delekta said. “I loved the work ethic cheerleading instilled in my life, and I wanted to help others maintain a work ethic to help them throughout their own lives.”

The UHS cheerleaders will be working hard all season for their district tournament, as well as the MHSAA finals in February. However, cheerleading is not only about the competitions and practices.

“Cheerleading is a time to take a break from everyday life. It’s a time for the girls to build a family outside of their families and grow lifelong friendships,” Delekta said. “This is why I love being a part of cheerleading in any way I can.”