TENNERTON – The two biggest dates on the Buckhannon-Upshur cheerleading schedule are fast approaching as they will compete in the Region I Championships this Saturday at Brooke High School and then they will compete Tuesday in the Big 10 Conference Championships at Lewis County High School.
Both events start at 6 p.m. with doors opening at 5 p.m.
For Buckhannon-Upshur cheerleading coach Christina Nestor, she expects her squad to give a good, clean, solid routine at both events.
“I want them to give it their all,” Nestor said. “I don’t want them to have any regrets. I want them to come off the floor knowing they gave 110 percent. The fans should expect a few changes in the next few days, but a high energy routine is always given.”
At the Region I show Saturday, the cheer squad will compete against Brooke, John Marshall, Morgantown, Preston, University and Wheeling Park.
“We are in one of the toughest regions in the state and one of the toughest conferences,” stated Nestor. “Everybody in both competitions cannot be taken lightly. There are many outstanding teams — it’s hard to name just a couple that could be our toughest competition.”
The cheerleaders had an open house on Tuesday to meet and greet the community, an ongoing tradition that Nestor has kept alive.
”It has been done for many years,” remarked Nestor. “It helps the girls get out the jitters and it also allows the community to show support for our cheerleaders that may not be able to travel.”
Nestor said it has been a tough few months for the cheerleaders this year with the team battling COVID-19 issues and other injuries.
“Things have not been smoother this year than last,” said Nestor of dealing with the pandemic. “Actually it’s been pretty hectic. The month of September there were very few full squad practices. We had multiple girls either quarantined or sick with other viruses. We were unable to get our full routine until October because of being quarantined and sick. October was a good month, but we still had our battles. We have been plagued with injuries and sickness, but nothing can keep these hard-working athletes from competing. I am one blessed coach to have such a fantastic, dedicated group of young ladies/cheerleaders.”
