In their first year as a competitive team, Ukiah High School’s cheer squad made history, placing second at the JAMZ School Cheer Nationals in Las Vegas. The competition is one of the biggest in the country, bringing together top middle and high school teams to battle for national titles with high-energy routines and intense performances.
Ukiah’s team is proving that cheerleading is more than just school spirit—it’s a demanding sport combining gymnastics, dance, and acrobatics. Coach Jamie Planka believes the sport deserves more recognition. “We do a lot more than people realize,” she said. “We stunt, which is halfway to acrobatics.” With just one shot at a two-and-a-half-minute routine, the pressure is intense.
Some stunts seemed impossible at first, but through hard work, the team made them happen. “There were a lot of things we weren’t sure we could do, like the inversions in our routine,” Planka said. “But this group of girls really showed up, especially in hard times.”
For sophomore Joanney Arellano, cheerleading is an adrenaline rush like no other. “The feeling of being on a mat is something unexplainable,” she said. “Your hard work pays off.” Despite challenges throughout the season, stepping onto the national stage was unforgettable. “It was so cool to see different teams, their bonds, and their skills,” she said. She also thinks cheer’s difficulty is underestimated. “Not everyone has the flexibility, stamina, and strength. Like, let me see you lift up a girl.”
Senior Cici Slotte cherished the time spent with her teammates. “Obviously, performing was amazing, but probably my favorite part was just hanging out and getting that quality time,” she said. The season had its struggles. “Sometimes our team doesn’t work in practice, and some people don’t want to put in the work,” she admitted. But once they got to Nationals, everything clicked. “We worked together and did a good job.”
Slotte also believes cheerleading is overlooked. “People think it’s just for girls and not that hard, but they don’t see how much work we put in,” she said. Competing is an emotional rollercoaster. “Waiting in the back, it’s nerve-wracking. I just pray everything hits.” But once on the mat, instinct takes over. “I black out. I don’t know what my body’s doing. I just go with it and hope for the best.”
Ukiah High’s cheer team made a statement at Nationals, proving their dedication and talent. They’re not just cheering for others—they’re earning recognition for themselves.
Cali O'Ferrall
Cali O'Ferrall is a freshman in the Ukiah High school journalism class. If you're not catching her at practice she enjoys snowboarding and hanging out with friends and family. She joined journalism because she enjoys being in the loop about relevant topics her mom also did journalism all of her high school years so she wanted to carry on the legacy. She is very optimistic and caring so shes always brings a good environment and makes people feel comfortable and welcome.