The Camaraderie Among Cheerleaders Meets the Battle for Glory
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By Shea Black
The Pen Argyl Cheerleading team executed a breathtaking performance at the annual PIAA District Competition, leaving the crowd in awe as they placed third place in the 2A Small Varsity division and guaranteed themselves a spot in states.
The atmosphere within Easton Area High School on January 4 was electric. Schools within the district gathered together, each bringing their own exceptional routines with them to the mat.
Pen Argyl High School’s Head Coach, Lizzie Valletta, trains with her team year round in preparation to succeed at these unforgettable events.
As the anticipation builds before performing, Ricky Adams, junior, follows through with a tradition passed onto her by former Pen Argyl cheerleader, Miyah Snyder. She kisses her index and middle fingers of both hands and then places them on the temples of each teammate to channel a focused mind for their routine. It is a gesture of good luck and love as well.
Adams said, “The bond between us cheerleaders is something special. I can’t wait until I’m a senior when I can pass this onto a sophomore just like she (Snyder) did. I don’t get nervous anymore during my performances once I step onto the mat. I trust these girls with everything and I think adrenaline takes over.”
The girls exhibited their tenacious Green Knight spirit through chants, tumbling passes, and stunts they’ve spent countless hours practicing to perfect.
Emma Cimino, senior, said “I would say our performance was near perfect, with hitting zero.”
It was revealed on the score sheets that the girls had no deductions taken off by the judges and had secured third place.
The surrounding cheer teams made it apparent in the course of the event that they foster a sense of community and share the same passion. They all support one another and the levels of sportsmanship seen at these events are almost unreal. Cheerleaders celebrate successes and failures as it is their goal to maintain a positive environment. There was no routine that did not end without a round of applause from a participant, a coach, or simply a spectator.
Photo Courtesy of Lizzie Valletta
The Pen Argyl Green Knight cheerleaders celebrate placing third at the PIAA District Competition. This victory cemented their place at the state competition.
After earning a bid to the 2025 Competitive States Competition, the young ladies will be traveling to Santander Arena in Reading, PA, in hopes of placing and making the Pen Argyl community proud once again for their dedication and efforts. Despite the location of states changing from previous years where it was held in Hershey, PA, the girls still plan to take the mat with high enthusiasm and drive to win.
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