After a decade-long absence, competitive cheerleading has made a strong comeback to Farmington High School, marking its first season in 10 years. The team began practicing in early November, preparing for the big cheer competition comeback, filled with hard work, teamwork, and determination.

The cheer team made its competitive debut on January 10 at Southfield A&T, where they faced lots of popular competition. Out of 30 teams there, they competed against 10 and ultimately placed seventh overall. While the outcome wasn’t a win, the placement was a great start for a first year team re-programing.

“Everyone’s getting everything together,” junior Gabii Aoki said. “I feel like we’re all working hard.”

Junior team captain CeCelia Clemons spoke about the transition from sideline cheerleading to competitive cheer.

“Sideline is more chill because we stand for most of the game and then turn around and call out for cheers,” Clemons said. “But in competitive you’re always saying something, so you get out of breath really easily.”

The physical and mental demands of competitive cheer have challenged the team, but also pushed them to grow stronger together as a team.

Clemons also described what it means to her to serve as a captain during this season.

“Honestly, it feels really great, especially since I have experience,” Clemons said. “I think that would be helpful to my team since there’s a lot of new girls there.”

Fellow captain Alyssa Owens shared similar enthusiasm about her leadership role.

“It feels really good, and it’s really fun,” Owens said.

As the season continues, the competitive cheer team is focused on improving, supporting one another, and representing their school with pride. Despite being new, their hard work and teamwork suggest this comeback season is only the beginning of something special.