Highland cheerleaders take 2nd place at IHSA sectionals, headed to state

The Highland High School varsity cheerleaders took second place at IHSA sectional competition Saturday, Feb. 1, in Carterville, qualifying for state in Bloomington on Friday, Feb. 7.

Only the top five teams in each region go on to compete at the state level. The Highland girls, coached by Angie Fears and Tess Henke, threw a solid, fast paced routine to beat 17 of the other 18 medium teams in their division.

Despite a number of injuries this season, the cheer team has persevered to return to the mat strong with each restructuring of their routine, taking first place in their previous five competitions.

The team is comprised of seniors Rileigh Bent, Karley Broske, Madysen Castile, and Kamy Daiber; juniors Karlie Hooton and Emma Ruffini; sophomores Morgan Flesch, Rhea Fowler, Mya Iberg, Allison Reiling, Kady Shaw, Brittani Wellen; and freshmen Madi Beiermann, Kyleigh Buchen, Kiley Courtney, Morgan Friesner, Riley Mansholt, Avery Miles, Carolynn Parsons, and Tallie Powell.

This story was originally published February 2, 2020 at 12:21 AM.