School salutes state champion Hampshire cheerleaders

The Hampshire High School state champion varsity cheerleading team was among the students honored Friday in a pep assembly.

The team of 20 was recognized for its achievement at a winter sports and academics recognition rally. Principal Brett Bending had the student body and staff rise to their feet and applaud the team as the school fight song was performed. The girls, dressed in shirts declaring their state championship title, stood as well, clapping along and beaming smiles.

The Whips earned their first state title Feb. 7 in Bloomington.

"One of the most difficult things to accomplish is a team championship," Bending said. "The precision, the strength, the determination, the dedication and the pure athleticism that was on display that each young lady showed is nothing short of extraordinary. And they deserve the respect of all our students, staff and community for not only the countless hours of preparation, but also for having the courage and focus to perform under the high intensity of state championship pressure."

The crowd roared.

"Ladies, we are proud of you. Congratulations," he said.

"It's just a great end to the season," coach Rachael Fischer said. "The girls worked so hard everyday at practice and it paid off in the end."

"It's been awesome to see these ladies really come together and totally kill it on the floor, and be so successful," added assistant coach Michelle Dec.