Eastern Tech's cheerleading team completed its most successful season in program history with a second-place showing at the winter state championships on Wednesday at Westminster High School.
The Mavericks finished with 134.9 points, narrowly losing to state champion Harford Tech, which had 137.1 points in the 13-team competition. Neither of the top two teams received any deductions, Eastern Tech coach Missy Wells said.
Follow Essex-Middle River Patch on Facebook and Twitter.
Other Baltimore County teams to compete at the state competition included Hereford and Perry Hall. Hereford placed fourth with 125.5 points while Perry Hall ended up in 10th place with 107.15 points.
For Eastern Tech, its performance at states is just the latest quality performance for what is quickly becoming one of the top cheerleading programs in Maryland. The Mavericks have also won two straight Baltimore County titles.
Wells said she credits the dicipline of her team, along with the support from the school community for their success.
"Their ability adapt to change and push themselves to the next level was instrumental in competiting successfully," Wells said. "Our Eastern Tech Parents have played a large part in our teams success. Their never-ending support and heartfelt love of the team has been such a gift."
Wells also wanted to thank Greg Collins from Baltimore County cheerleading, who she said served as a mentor to her through 10 years of recreation cheerleading and the last two years at Eastern Tech.
"His knowledge of the sport and his willingness to assist Baltimore County high schools is paramount in strengthening the sport within the state of Maryland," Wells said.
Here is the Eastern Tech varsity cheerleading roster:
Alana Accinelli (Jr.), Kayla Alvey (Fr.), Danielle Bassetti (Jr.), Shannon Boyle (Jr.), Christy Brockschmidt (Jr.). Bryanna Ey (Sr.), Amand Harris (Jr.), Taylor Jones (So.), Olivia Keenan (So.), Kelsey Kinnear (So.), Desiree LePore (Jr.), Jamea Lott (Fr.), Julianna Norkitus (Jr.), Taylor Poblett (Jr.), Ashely Sauerwein (Sr.), Jessica Siegmann (Sr.), Brittney Sommerfeld (Jr.), Brooke Tetrick (Jr.), Alexis Thompson (Jr.), Casey Waller (Fr.), Joseph Webster (Sr.), Sarah Wilson (Sr.), Taylor Wozny (Fr.).
Is cheeleading overlooked as a varsity sport? Tell us in the comments section below.
Gina Samuels
11:41 am on Friday, February 17, 2012
Way to go Eastern Tech Varsity Cheerleaders. Olivia survived a rush to the emergency room the night before competition and Alana threw the most beautiful tuck, which made her mom cry. All of the girls were amazing and I am so proud of them!
J moore
7:39 am on Saturday, February 18, 2012
Great job girls!!!! The community is proud of you all!!