Area cheer teams showcase routines ahead of state championships

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

JACKSON, Mo. (KBSI) — Four area high school cheer teams are preparing for state competition after performing their championship routines for family, friends and community members at Jackson High School.

Jackson, Kelly, East Prairie and Oak Ridge participate in the State Cheer Showcase on Sunday, Oct. 18, at the school’s event center.

Each team earns its state berth by placing among the top five in its division at regional competition in September. Since qualifying, the teams have worked to sharpen their routines, increase difficulty and prepare for the state championships.

The showcase gives the cheerleaders another opportunity to perform before a crowd while allowing local teams to watch and support one another. With schools competing in different classifications, they do not always get to see each other’s routines at competitions.

Jackson competes in Class 6A Large, while Kelly and East Prairie compete in Class 2A Small. Oak Ridge competes in Class 1A Small.

The teams now turn their attention to the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association’s state championships Oct. 24-25 at the University of Missouri’s Hearnes Center in Columbia.