Valor Cheer and Poms Achieve Major Success at Nationals

Valor Christian High School’s cheer and poms teams achieved remarkable success at the Division II national championships held in Orlando, Florida, from January 31 to February 2, 2024. The Valor cheer team made a significant impact by securing first place in the super varsity game day, non-tumbling category, while also earning third place in the traditional routine.

The cheer team participated in the Universal Cheer Association’s competition, showcasing both game day and traditional routines. Coach and dean of students Kallyn Connor emphasized the hard work, commitment, and trust that led the team to this prestigious event. The journey began with qualifying for nationals in two competitions, first in Minnesota and then in Denver.

Coach Connor shared insights about the performance, stating, “Every part of the routine required precision, strength, and confidence, especially knowing one mistake could affect the whole team. We tried to focus on being our version of ‘perfect’ and not focus on anyone else. In the end, ‘our perfect’ ended up being perfect.” This victory was particularly sweet for the team, as they had placed second seven times in previous competitions.

In the traditional category, Valor cheer competed in the large varsity intermediate non-tumbling division. Their routines featured stunts, jumps, pyramids, and dance elements. Coach Connor expressed pride in the personal growth of the athletes, saying, “The most rewarding part has been watching the girls grow—not just as athletes, but as confident young women. Seeing them learn to trust each other, push past self-doubt, and show up for one another has been incredibly fulfilling.”

Poms Team Shines with Silver Medal

The Valor poms team also made a strong showing at the national level, earning a silver medal at the Division II competition organized by the Universal Dance Association. Competing alongside 24 teams in the small varsity DII game day category, they secured second place. The team also achieved seventh place in small varsity DII pom, which featured 40 teams, and eighth place in small varsity DII jazz, competing against 38 teams.

Pom Coach Nicole Toscano reflected on the team’s performance, highlighting their unity and resilience throughout the season. “Even when faced with mental, physical, or emotional challenges, we never stopped showing up for one another,” Toscano remarked. “Every single girl uplifted the others, pushed them to be their best, celebrated each other’s victories, and grew together in faith. More than anything, I am proud of the heart we carried with us all year long.”

The accomplishments of both the cheer and poms teams at the national championships represent not only competitive success but also personal growth and teamwork, showcasing the dedication of the athletes and coaches at Valor Christian High School.