Northridge claims UCA West Nationals

Jill was nimble and Jill was quick, but Jill couldn't match the Northridge schtick.

Last week, the Northridge High School cheerleading squad outperformed schools from across the West to take first place in the large varsity category at the United Cheerleading Association's West Coast Nationals.

Jill Griffeth, co-advisor with Kim Cunningham, said it was their tumbling that set them apart from the other teams during their 2.5-minute routine of stunting, tumbling and cheering.

"They are seriously amazing tumblers," said Griffeth. "We have had so many compliments about how they can't believe the amount of tumbling skills that this team has. It's fun to watch them."

Northridge also has a competition coach, Cameron Larsen, who helped them to clean up their stunts and perform a crisp routine without dropping any stunts.

During the routine they impressed the judges by performing difficult tumbling routines including round-off back handsprings known as x-outs, standing fulls and standing tucks.

Kristen Campbell, team captain, said that besides their good performance, the Knights had a little extra enthusiasm that helped them win.

"When we were watching we noticed that some teams performing didn't act excited about it. They did what they were supposed to do, but didn't go beyond that. We just acted really excited and confident and we have that part of us, that flicker, that just stood out more."

When the judges announced the results and it came down to Northridge and another team, Campbell said the team was holding pinkies for good luck.

"We were really nervous," she said. "When they announced us it was kind of a shock, but relief, because we've worked so hard and practiced. And it was a relief that all we've worked for finally came true."

Griffeth said that besides winning the UCA Nationals, the team this year earned several awards at their camp, including the leadership award, and has overcome many injuries.

The squad includes Campbell, Myka Kennah (co- captain), Kara Hamblin (team motivater), Lindsi Adams, Hailee Harris, Olivia Harris, Safari Sorenson, Chelsie White, Shelbie Glauser, Erika Halverson, Mikarie Kelsey, Trisha Noyce, Kimmie Snoy, Alyssa Wamsley, Katie Hansell, Caitlyn Christensen, Kaylee Fernandes, Marley McClune, Morgan Nichols, Petra Macon, Brittany Garcia, Conner Olney, Taylor Hopper, and Rylee Schenck.

At the same competition, Davis High School cheerleaders placed third in the medium varsity category.