WEGO’s cheer team took on the sectional competion at Oswego High School on Jan. 31, but was unable to qualify for the IHSA state championship.

For senior Avery Unger, it was her last high school cheerleading event.

“The performance could’ve been better, but we had fun, and that’s what matters,” Unger said. “I am very proud of the team for continuously trying even when we felt like giving up or felt like we couldn’t compete with the other teams.”

Fellow teammate and senior, Ny’Ara Tate, recalled the efforts and results of the meet as well.

“I felt very confident going into my last high school routine. Obviously, there were high emotions and some filled with sadness as well because it’s the end, but overall I felt like we all gave it our all,” Tate said.

The loss at sectionals and official finishing of the season marks the end of a pivotal chapter for the seniors, many of whom have completed at WEGO for all four years.

“I hope to leave with everyone knowing I always left my all on the mat, performing hurt, sad, or excited,” Tate said.

Although there’s competitive cheer, which is typically indoors, the majority also participated in sideline cheer, which primarily focuses on cheering at sporting events. Together, both cheer seasons span over roughly six months and require consistency, dedication, and hard work.

“I’m happy to have a break since we’ve been doing this since early in the summer but sad since I won’t do this ever again,” Unger said.

Through all the ups and downs, the seniors have undoubtedly made an impact on the program and have made long-lasting friendships with the other cheerleaders.

“It’s sad that it was the seniors’ last comp, especially because I’m so close with them, and some of them I’ve even done youth cheer with,” junior Piper Kaiser said.

The team has high expectations for next year, though, and is encouraged to keep moving forward.

“I hope next season we can pick up where we left off to get to an even better place,” Kaiser said.

Correction

Feb. 4, 2026

An earlier version of this article included inaccurate information about the competition schedule. The article has been updated for accuracy.

Feb 2, 2026

The article was updated to include a caption in the featured image.