by Adam Godfrey

The Woodbridge High School Competition Cheer team went to Texas in January to compete in the National tournament. The team came home winners.

Coach Roderick, who is in her fourth year of teaching and coaching, said she and the team felt very positive on their way to Nationals. “It is a very different experience compared to local competitions on weekends. The atmosphere is a mix between nerves and excitement.”

Coach Roderick wasn’t the only one who felt positive heading into Nationals. Seniors Adriana Josifoska and Mackenzie Thomas, who have both been cheering for the team for four years, felt confident heading into the big competition.

“We knew that if we went out and put the best routine out there, we had a very, very good chance of winning.” Mackenzie said. She said she would describe her team as focused because “no matter what the situation, we knew we needed to do whatever it takes to win.”

When Woodbridge was announced the winner, Adriana said she felt relieved. “There was a sense of relief going through my body. I was emotional and beyond happy.” She described her team as a family and said, “We do absolutely everything together and we are so comfortable around each other.”

“Even when I thought I was doing the most I could, [Coach Gulicks] still pushed me to become better. She has taught me to be determined on and off the mat.” Adriana said.

Mackenzie added that her coach is amazing because, “she has taught me so much, not only as a cheerleader but, as a person. She has pushed me and the team to the best of our abilities and that is why we have won a State championship and a National title.”

Athletic Director Mr. Ward is “extremely proud” of the cheer team’s success, attributing it to the “hard work and dedication” of everyone involved.