The cheerleading team completed their competition season as they placed second at Conference, fourth place at Sectionals, and 12th place at the 2016 IHSA State Competition.

State took place on February 5-6 at U.S. Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington, Illinois.

Aside from achieving their goal of going to State, they set individual goals which coordinates to the team as a whole.

“Our goal all year has been to be the best Grayslake North cheer team there has been. We wanted to have more tumbling and better skills than we’ve ever had,” said head coach Jennifer Garza.

The team puts in a tremendous amount of work for preparation in order to achieve their goals for the season.

“We practice every day, and every game we do a full out so we get used to being in front of people and performing,” said senior Monica Myers.

After all the practicing, the team attended competitions at nearby high schools to compete for a winning title in their new division, Medium Varsity.

“In Lake Zurich, we placed fourth. At Buffalo Grove, we finished fifth. At the GNHS Cheer Invite, we placed fourth. We proudly finished in second place at our Conference, and lastly, took fourth place at Sectionals in Lake Zurich,” Garza said.

In between competitions, the team shows their support for North’s basketball teams and performs at halftime for additional practice.

“When we are cheering during basketball season, that is sideline cheering, and it is about what the teams on the court are doing. We are there to support and cheer them on,” Garza said.

Throughout their season, the team leaders really take on the initiative to lead and motivate the team toward success.

“Our seniors have really taken the leadership roles. They are always pushing us to do our best. They have been through it more than the rest of us, so they really step-up and help the underclassmen. They are very helpful to all of us no matter what the situation,” said freshman Caitlin Barenbaum.

Not only do the senior cheerleaders push the other girls to success, but the loss of one of their own makes them want to be better.

“This year, Haylie inspires us to go out and do it for her. Overall, this season is dedicated to her, and we will always remember this season,” Barenbaum said.