Cheerleaders third in region competition

Published 10:22 pm Monday, November 5, 2007

MOULTRIE — The Colquitt County cheerleading squad qualified for the state meet at Saturday’s qualifier in Sylvester, despite what its coach called “a tough day.”

The Lady Packers had scored a 219 in the Last Chance Meet in Sylvester the week before, but had only a 209 before deductions on Saturday.

Houston County won the region championship. Lowndes was second and Valdosta was fourth

The state cheerleading championships will be Friday and Saturday at the Columbus Civic Center.

Colquitt County will compete in the second session on Friday, which begins at 1 p.m.

“We hope to refocus this week and give all we have this Friday in Columbus,” coach Patti Harby said.

Colquitt County had a 5-point deduction for a standing tuck hitting the floor, and the hip hop cost 10 points because it leaned too much, Harby said.

“It was very rocky,” she said.

But, Harby said, “The girls have had an amazing season, so no matter what, they should be proud of themselves. I know I am.

“I think this group of girls has had to overcome a lot of adversity, especially last week.”