We Are The Fighters!

The Grayslake North Knights varsity cheerleaders put out their best on the mat at the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) sectionals competition on Saturday, Jan. 26.

The team placed second and secured their spot at the state championships in Bloomington next weekend.

Saturday morning's sectionals started with a rally cry from team leaders, "We are the Fighters," building on a theme from the music video Gym Class Heroes.

The GNHS cheerleaders competed with an expanded team this year to meet the requirements of IHSA "Large School" category. A larger team means more coordination among more cheerleaders and constant practice to get the routine perfected, said head coach Jennifer Garza.

In competition, you only have one chance, and the smallest of mistakes cost you points. When it comes to sectional competition it means the difference from moving on to state or going home.

"We have had a lot of ups and downs this season and this team never quit. They persevered to be the best team that they could be," said Garza. "These young ladies have gone above and beyond to show their true dedication. I can never thank them enough!"

"They put their hearts into it, and they are living in the excitement that they will climb on the bus to Bloomington and compete in state competition next weekend. I am very proud of all three levels of Grayslake North Cheerleading and I am so excited to be going down to Bloomington with these 21 girls."

Check out this video from the IHSA cheerleading sections at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=uYPYo1qG-wE.