Stellar year for pom squads

The TriCity Cheer and Pom Squads had a successful season. They participated in homecoming festivities, cheered at football games, and attended squad parties. They demonstrated their love for the sport through their stellar performances at competitions.

• On Sept. 29, the TriCity Cheer and Pom Squad participated in the Bloomingdale Blast Competition. Three teams took first place: Featherweight Cheer, coached by Kathi Burch and Cindi Gilbertson; Junior Poms, coached by Kelly Lullo and Lena Storms; and Varsity Cheer, coached by Jessica Taylor. Other towns that competed at this competition were: Barlett, Bloomingdale, Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Glendale, Schaumburg, West Chicago and Wheaton.

• On Oct. 19, they had multiple first- and second-place finishes at the Tri-County Competition. Two teams took first place: Mascot Cheer, coached by Tina Vodar; and Bantam Cheer, coached by Trisha Gentry. Four teams won second place: Junior Pee Wee Poms, coached by Jennifer Haston and Judi Hernandez; Featherweight Cheer, coached by Kathi Burch and Cindi Gilbertson; Junior Poms, coached by Kelly Lullo and Lena Storms; and Varsity Cheer, coached by Jessica Taylor. Other towns that competed at this competition were: Antioch, Cary, Crystal Lake, Grayslake, Huntley, Lake in the Hills and Warren.

• At the Conant Spirit Challenge on Oct. 25, two squads won first place: Featherweight Cheer, coached by Kathi Burch and Cindi Gilbertsen; and Junior Poms, coached by Kelly Lullo and Lena Storms. Other towns that competed at this competition were: Bartlett, Carol Stream, Frankfort, Hampshire, Lemont, Tinley Park, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg and Wheaton.

These two squads now qualify to compete for a state championship title on Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Sears Arena in Hoffman Estates.

TriCity Cheer and Pom Squads are beginning to plan next year's season. To learn more, visit www.tricitycheerandpom.org or call Cindy Roth at (630) 513-6388.