The competition took place on Jan. 4 at Hempfield Area with 18 total 3A schools competing in three different divisions: 3A Large Varsity, Co-Ed Varsity and 3A Small Varsity. The winners of each division – North Allegheny, Butler and South Fayette, respectively – were named WPIAL champions. Then, the top 12 out of 18 3A scores of the day earned a bid to states.
P-T had a strong performance with a routine that highlighted many difficult stunts, including a pyramid and multiple partner stunts, but they fell just short in their division to an excellent South Fayette squad who scored a 92.5.
Marissa Botti prepares to compete in WPIALs
“I think we had an amazing performance. We all came together and did what we needed to do to secure a spot at states,” stated four-year veteran of the cheer team, Gianna Botti.
Despite not taking home a trophy at WPIALs, the P-T team feels strongly about their routine and their chances at the state level.
“This team has the talent, determination, and heart to compete at the highest level,” stated head cheer coach Alexis Martonik. “If they focus on the adjustments, push through every challenge, and bring their best performance to the mat, I truly believe they can place well and make themselves and the school proud.”
The state competition will take place from Jan. 30-31 at Santander Area in Reading. This is P-T’s 12th year in a row qualifying for the state competition.
“[Qualifying for states] is almost like a weight lifted off my shoulders because states is not guaranteed, yet this is where the work really starts,” Botti stated.
By Mia Williams, Managing Editor