Apache cheer squad earn high marks at state competition

The Gonzales High School cheerleaders traveled to the Texas State cheer champ from June 5-8, earning the following trophies in their final day of competition: first in sideline, third in cheer, third in “xtreme” routine and first overall game day champs.

"Our cheerleaders left camp with so much to be proud of,” cheerleader coach Jean Hoghoughi said. “The last four days they have worked extremely hard, from sun up to sun down, and it did not go unnoticed. They also had a lot of fun together and with the UCA staff. I love each of them so much and love seeing them share our Apache traditions with everyone. The squad received so many compliments from other coaches and cheerleaders about how sharp they were, how disciplined they were, and how well mannered they were, among other things. One coach, who is also a veteran, gave us his Come and Take It patch from his military uniform after witnessing their contagious enthusiasm, their pride in their community, and genuine appreciation for his service.”

The squads earned a gold superior ribbon each night in their sideline, cheer, and Xtreme Routine evaluations. They also earned a spirit stick and the Spirit Banana on the third night.

“Lastly, Amerie White, Presleigh Zella, Bailey Bennett, and Krystalynn Buesing earned the title of All-American Cheerleader and the opportunity to travel to London,” Hoghoughi noted. “Seidy Villegas received the Pin it Forward award for exemplifying leadership, spirit, commitment, kindness, and motivation. She was also asked to join the staff and become part of Team UCA and encouraged to try out for Texas State cheer.”

“As camp comes to an end, it is always bittersweet for the seniors,” Hoghoughi said. “This senior group is special to me because they were the first group of cheerleaders that I had the opportunity of coaching. They are beyond talented and will only continue to improve. The seniors, along with the rest of the squad, may be small in numbers, but they are mighty! It's going to be a great year!​"​

​The All American Cheerleaders are trying to raise money to get to London. They earned the opportunity​ to go to London to perform at the New Year's Day parade, but as you can imagine, the trip is expensive. Please help them raise the money so this once in a lifetime opportunity is not missed by any of them! They will be having another car wash on Aug. 12 at the Victoria College Workforce Center parking lot from 9 a.m. to noon.

The cheerleaders are also holding a BBQ benefit on July 9. It will be $10 per plate. Plates will be available for pick up at Boomers. Tickets will be on sale for the BBQ at the Main Street Concert series on June 23. Look for their booth.

The theatre department is joining forces with these ladies and hosting a cheer/theatre day camp on July 17 to help them raise money. It will be $30 with a performance that evening. The incredibly supportive Coach Cully Doyle is helping the girls to host a cross-country meet for elementary students on Aug. 30, Sept. 20 and Sept. 27 at 4:15 p.m. It will only be $5 to join the race. A benefit performance, silent auction, and much more is planned. Please find a way to support these four ladies as they have supported the Apaches tirelessly along with their squad.