Del Oro High School Cheer finished first at JAMZ High School Nationals in the Varsity Level 1 division.

Del Oro High School Cheer defeated eight teams from all over the West Coast to win the Varsity Level 1 division at JAMZ High School Nationals in Las Vegas. The journey to nationals started in June with 11 athletes, including four returning competition athletes and seven rookies. Head coach Leah Warren said in the early days of the season, it was exciting and challenging to build a solid foundation for success. "From the start, the focus was on conditioning, practicing and developing the skills and teamwork needed to succeed at the national level," she said. The journey felt remarkable, according to Warren. "With the majority of the team being new athletes, finding our bond didn't happen overnight. The girls had to work through physical and mental challenges, deal with injuries and push past tough practice days," she explained. "But as the months went on, they came together in a way that was truly special. By the time we headed to nationals, they were the definition of a team — united, determined and full of energy." Warren said what set this group apart was their ability to find joy in the process. The team didn't win once at championships yet went to nationals determined to come home with the title. "Going into nationals without a first-place finish from any regional competition could have shaken their confidence, but instead, it lit a fire in them," the coach said. "After day one, learning we were in first place heading into day two could have been nerve-wracking, but they remained calm, confident and focused. The way they performed on the mat was a testament to their growth and determination." The program had never won a national title before. Riley Elkins, a sophomore on the team, said it was a life-changing moment to win. "I credit our win to the incredible chemistry we share. Unlike previous years and other teams I've been on, this team truly understands what it means to be a team," Elkins said. "For us, being a team means looking out for each other." Elkins described looking out for each other as hyping each other up and correcting each other when they need help, always putting their teammates' feelings and heart first, and remembering their shared love and goals for cheerleading. She also shared the endless support for each other and their coaches has made this season special. Coach Warren said hearing their name called was an unforgettable moment. "It felt like everything we'd worked for - the late nights, tough practices and sacrifices - had all paid off," Warren said. "The energy was pure excitement and joy. Winning wasn't just about the title, it was about proving to ourselves that all the hard work, perseverance and unity could lead to something extraordinary." She knows this victory is something the athletes will carry forever. She plans to carry it, too. "I'm incredibly proud of these girls, not just for winning but for the way they came together, pushed each other and embodied the true meaning of teamwork," Warren said. "This victory is something they'll carry with them forever, and so will I." Senior Paityn Nyberg said winning the title was sweeter than anything she could have imagined. "It was proof that every challenge we faced was worth it in the end, and I could not be prouder of my team," Nyberg said.