SHS cheer squad earns honors at UW camp

Bring on the cheer season.

Sequim High School’s varsity and junior varsity cheer squads got a tutorial in cheer at a National Collegiate Athletic Association cheer camp at the University of Washington in Seattle Aug. 4-7. While there, team members learned proper cheer technique, stunt and a variety of cheers, chants and dances, coach Carmen Wiker said. They also learned about the importance of their responsibility as representatives of their school to be positive role models and leaders at school, as well as in their community, Wiker noted. Sequim High’s junior varsity squad received a trophy for Most Improved and both squads came home with Oustanding, Excellent and Superior ribbons for material they learned and on which they were evaluated. Both squads also came home with the coveted Spirit Stick awards, which represents their enthusiasm and positive attitude, their ability to work well together and overcome challenges, and to cheer on other squads, Wiker said. Team members Caihley Baker, Kelsie Dotlich, Persephone Nelson, Kayla Forshaw and Maddy Zbaraschuk were nominated by their coach for the All American squad for their technique and leadership abilities.