Any high school sport requires off-season training and refining.
Count the Bayfield Cheer Squad as already seeing returns on such an investment.
With the start of the fall season getting closer and closer and expectations at BHS as high as ever, it certainly stands to reason those responsible for riling up the rooters to peak volume on game day had better be as prepared as any athlete.
Learning and competing at the Spirit West Xpress Cheer camp held in Aztec, N.M., July 6-7, the Cheer Squad-the only co-ed roster out of all attending-shook off a potential stigma and shone.
"Our.team was the smallest team there in number and in size," Head Coach Katie Zufelt said in an e-mail. "At this particular camp they give out awards for random things.. Our amazing team was voted 'Best Team' and the team that everyone else wanted to be a part of. We received a huge banner to hang in the school!"
"We were voted for this prestigious award AFTER having to leave early due to an injury that required emergency aid," she noted, "and with only six squad members attending the camp."
Along with co-coach Meeca Bailey, making the successful trip were squad captain Emma Sibley, co-captain Bryce Vaughn, Ian Nelson, Mackenzie Donahue, Caitlyn Phillips and Maggy Isiordia.
Still seeking members, Zufelt indicated a readiness to build upon the squad's summer foundation.
"We are hosting a second tryout after school resumes," she said, Tryouts are from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. August 24-28 in the auxiliary gym.
