Fairfield, CA - The Rodriguez High School Junior Varsity (JV) and Varsity cheer teams recently attended the four-day UCA Cheer camp in Manteca, CA from July 22 to July 25. This event was an opportunity for the teams to showcase their dedication and hard work while gaining invaluable skills and experiences. The camp was a platform for the cheerleaders to learn new cheers, dances, and stunting techniques, while also fostering strong bonds and creating lasting memories.
Throughout the camp, the cheerleaders engaged in a variety of activities designed to enhance their cheerleading abilities. They participated in daily performances and evaluations, mastering new cheers, dances, and stunting techniques. Schools had the chance to earn ribbons, ranked from lowest to highest: white, red, blue, and gold. The RHS JV team performed exceptionally well, earning blue and gold ribbons, while the Varsity team proudly secured blue ribbons.
A key aspect of the camp was team bonding, as the RHS cheerleaders connected with peers from other schools. The camaraderie and support they experienced created a positive and motivating environment.
Eleven RHS cheerleaders were recognized as All-Americans: Aaliyah Cook, Jaeden Burke, Kaylee McEnroe, Madison Troutt, MaKayla Marshall, and Riley Martell from the JV team, and Gianna Tabangcura, Kaitlyn Joyce Cervantes, Leah Espinoza, Rhyan Ayala, and Shirin Anderson-Shirazi from the Varsity team. This honor highlights their individual talents and brings recognition to Rodriguez High School. These All-Americans will have the chance to perform at significant events across the country, including the Pearl Harbor Parade in Hawaii in December.
The awards won by the RHS teams reflect their hard work and spirit. The Varsity team secured 2nd place for the UCA Varsity Cheer Team Award, while both JV and Varsity placed 2nd in the Spirit Routine Overall category. In the Camp Routine Award, both teams achieved 2nd place. Additionally, RHS was honored with the School Tradition Sideline Overall Award for having the best cheer traditions at football games. The final highlight was winning the Top Banana Camp Overall Award, given to the school with the best spirit throughout the four days of camp.
"The coaches are immensely proud of both teams," said coach Tye McKinney. "Every day, the cheerleaders gave their all, fought fiercely, and never gave up. Their dedication and hard work were richly rewarded with the numerous awards they brought home. The RHS JV and Varsity cheer teams return to Rodriguez High School with heads held high, ready to inspire and lead with the spirit they showcased at the UCA Cheer Camp. RHS Cheer is excited for the upcoming 2024-2025 Cheer season."
