The last few months of practice and training paid off for Hood River Valley High School’s winter competitive cheerleading team. The squad of 13 girls performed in front of thousands Saturday at the Memorial Coliseum in the annual OSAA state cheerleading contest and, in its second season as a competitive team, placed fifth out of 12 in the 5A small division.

“Once we got to the end of our routine I was about to cry,” said senior Ciena Brittle. “But I had to hold it in just a little bit longer. When I left that mat I had the greatest feeling because I knew we did the best we could. We left it all out there. Nothing could top that feeling I had with that being my very last performance. I felt confident and so proud of everyone; it has been the greatest experience of my life.”