March 22, 2006
Terps Competitive Cheer took home its 10th title this weekend, marking the strongest season yet in the sport's history at Maryland.
Assistant Coach Jarnell Bonds said that while they did win, the performance wasn't their best. "The pyramid cradles were slightly off and we weren't quite as solid as we've been in the past."
She isn't worried, however, sighting the team's recent downsize to the 20 cheerleader cap for NCA College Nationals. "We definitely have found the correct combination of 20 from the team. Now we just have to work on strengthening the areas that are weak after taking people out."
Bonds says the team's strong points showed through. All but one tumbling pass was perfect and the partner stunts hit, despite removing each group's front spot. While the pyramid timing was off, it didn't fall...a major worry when the extra spotters are pulled out for nationals.
She also singled out Dana Smith as a perfect example of what the Terps need in these coming weeks. "She did an overall awesome job out there for us."
The Terps will take off this coming weekend to rest and regroup before April begins. They will compete on April 1st and 2nd in Ocean City, Md. before traveling to Daytona Beach, Fla. on the 5th for NCA College Nationals.
Maryland placed first in a field of four. Morgan State placed second, repeating last year's top two finishes. Third place went to Wilmington College, while the club team from the University of Virginia finished in fourth.
