For the 5th time in the history of the program, the Vidalia Competition Cheerleaders are Region Champions! The Vidalia team took the top honors of Region 2AA on Saturday at Parsons-Reid Gymnasium, outscoring Swainsboro and Bacon Co. Toombs Co., Jeff Davis, and East Laurens finished 4th-6th.
The title for the Indians was the 2nd in three years and automatically qualified them for the GHSA AA State Championships Friday in Macon.
Featuring ten seniors, the Indians “have been struggling all season,” according to Head Coach Ann Michele Toole. But, on Saturday, they were able to overcome an early “blip” and finish the routine in style to take the title. “We’ve been trying to find the right fit on the floor at the right time. But I’m super proud of them, because they really did bring it and they have proven over and over again that their resilience is there and that they want it and they are driven to represent Vidalia with the best of their abilities.”
Injuries have been a huge part of the season, with as many as three of the team being out at times during the season. That’s in addition to Senior Haley Metts, who suffered a season-ending injury. “This has probably been one of the hardest seasons as far as injuries go. With the COVID season last year and not having the time to rest, we are kind of following up with the remnants of those injuries, but I will say that they have done a nice job overcoming those injuries and sticking to the plan and working hard.” Toole went on to say that she is very appreciative of all who had a hand in helping run the meet, “you know there’s nothing like performing in front of your home crowd and we so appreciate everyone who came out to support us. But an event like this takes a lot of work, and our people never fail to step up and do what’s needed represent Vidalia in a classy and professional way, and I so appreciate that.”
A group of ten seniors represents this year’s team, and Toole, when asked where she would rank this title with others, said, “this one is very special. This group of seniors has been with me for four years and they all just bring unique things to the floor and they have been great leaders for us. And not knowing from week to week who was going to be on the floor for us and having to overcome the obstacles that we have had, this one is really sweet for us.”
Vidalia will try for their 4th State Championship on Friday when they compete at the GHSA State Cheerleading Championships at the Macon Coliseum. The Indians will compete in the morning session, which begins at 10:00 AM.
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(Picture by Carroll Williams) (Courtesy of VHS)
