The Lewiston High School cheer team took third place at the state competition Feb. 24 in Boise.
Being the first year the Bengals have taken a placing spot at state since 2017, the LHS cheerleaders made history. However, the program has made it to the state competition many times, according to senior team member Ryan Carper.
The varsity team placed third overall, third place in POM, and 2nd place in the sideline sections. The team was tied for second overall with Owyhee, though, Owyhee placed higher overall, taking second place. The team that took first place was Highland of Pocatello.
Before getting to state, the team spent their long season cheering for LHS football and basketball teams at significant valley events such as Battle of the Bridges and Golden Throne. They have put their all into their work, bringing spirit to these games and keeping the energy up. On top of this, they have spent countless hours at after-school rehearsals, perfecting their routines and attending competitions.
Senior Ryan Carper, who has been on the cheer squad since last year, expressed his excitement for their victory.
“It felt absolutely amazing,” Carper said. “I couldn’t even put it into words the joy that I felt. It felt fulfilling more than anything.”