214@100: Cheerleading glory years part of E.G.H.S.'s DNA

Many of Elk Grove High School's sports teams have achieved a great deal of success, but perhaps none more than Elk Grove's cheerleading team. From 2005 through 2010 the team was nothing less than a dynasty, winning five straight coed state championships.

The success can be attributed not only to the team members, but also to Coach Jeff Siegal, now the Buffalo Grove head coach. Siegal instills a work ethic in his teams, and develops complex routines that keep them focused every second.

"Our coach pushed everyone to their full potential at every practice," said Shannon Evans, a member of the '09 and '10 champion teams. "We always practiced like it was a competition." The team practiced through the summer, fall and winter.

Her teammate, Kristyn Schadd, remembers how demanding the 10-month road to state was.

"In May, we would have tryouts, and then we would have camp all summer. We competed in practices all throughout winter break until we had sectionals and made it to state," Schadd said.

Rebecca Serra, the current EGHS assistant varsity coach and member of the '06, '07 and '08 teams, said it was a unique and amazing experience.

"Each year there was more and more pressure to repeat, but it just made it that much better," she said.

The glory years are unforgettable to the athletes and coaches who participated.

"It is an incredible feeling knowing I was part of something so special," Evans said. "It is awesome being a part of a team that made history."

• 214@100 is a celebration of District 214's centennial; 100 people, places, things and events that have shaped the school district's unique history. To contribute an idea, send an email to district214@dailyherald.com.