If you’ve ever dreamed of being under the Friday night lights, leading the student section, or traveling to big competitions, now’s your chance — Ukiah High Cheer tryouts are just around the corner!
Tryouts will run from April 28 through May 2, starting with four days of preparing and practicing the designated cheer and dance from 4 to 6 PM in the UHS cafeteria. Then on May 2, it’s go time — the formal tryout will take place in the UHS gym, and each participant will receive a designated time slot to show what they’ve learned. All incoming freshmen through seniors are welcome to try out. Come dressed in athletic shoes and clothing, leave the jewelry at home, and don’t forget your water bottle.
Sophomore cheerleader Arellano says: “Cheer is THE high school experience. The feeling of being under the Friday Night Lights is something that is indescribable. I’ve met so many amazing people through cheer — these are girls I’ll have for life.”
Ukiah High Cheer offers two exciting experiences. Sideline cheer is all about school spirit—cheering on the football team, performing a dance each quarter, performing halftime routines, and getting the student section fired up. You’ll even get to represent UHS in the Pumpkin Fest Parade. Then there’s competition cheer, the more intense and high-energy version of the sport. The team travels to places like the State competition in Bakersfield and Nationals in Las Vegas. “The adrenaline rush of stepping onto the mat at competitions is something no one would understand,” Arellano shares. “You just blackout and perform—it’s unreal.”
Whether you’re all about school spirit or ready for the challenge of the competition stage, Ukiah High Cheer has a place for you. Show up, work hard, and you just might become part of something unforgettable. See you at tryouts!
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.