Journey to the Championship

In an astounding display of athleticism and team spirit, the Torrey Pines High School competitive cheer squad clinched the CIF San Diego Section championship in the Small Group Division II. The event, held at Montgomery High School on December 2nd, witnessed the Falcons showcasing a flawless routine that earned them this prestigious title.

Renowned for their impeccable performances, the team’s winning routine was a product of creative collaboration. Choreographed by Anna Haskell, a former NFL cheerleader and collegiate dancer, the music routine resonated with dynamism and energy. Complementing this, the cheer choreography, crafted by Head Coach Olivia Bogert, who also teaches AP literature and creative writing at Torrey Pines, added layers of sophistication and technique to the performance.

The CIF Regional Cheer Championships, a gathering of 56 high school squads from across San Diego, is the arena where these teams vied for the top spot at various levels. Torrey Pines High School, standing out among these contenders, marked a historic moment by winning their first Traditional Cheer Competition championship. This victory was even more significant as it was their first playoff appearance since competitive cheer was acknowledged as a sport by the California Interscholastic Federation.

The rigorous preparation for this championship started in early October, with the team dedicating three to four sessions weekly after school and on weekends. Their two-and-a-half-minute routine, encompassing stunts, tumbling, jumping, dancing, and chants, was evaluated on execution, technique, and the difficulty degree. This dedicated preparation period was instrumental in honing their skills to perfection.