Since the global pandemic caused our world to change drastically over exactly a year ago, we are finally beginning to gain a sense of normality back. On Feb. 24, L.A. County met the state guidelines to return to outdoor high school sports which resulted in the announcement that sports here at West Covina High School could resume in-person activities, following certain safety precautions

Senior and co-captain of the Varsity team, Chloe Enriquez, expresses her excitement to be back at cheer practices. 

“I’ve missed my teammates and coaches very much, being with them is always a good time.” said Enriquez.

Fellow teammate of Chloe, sophomore, Agatha Tampubolon, also feels positively about being back at practice.

“I feel amazing being able to practice and be out there with my team while still being safe and healthy. I really missed stunting and working hard to achieve a goal as a team.”

In order to ensure the safety of everyone, the team makes sure to wash their hands often, wear masks, and do daily check-ins such as taking temperatures. Lately, practices have been consisting of hitting certain stunts, jumps, and tumbling skills to condition their bodies for when they are able to return to showcasing their athletic ability.

Although the cheerleaders aren’t currently preparing to perform at games or compete, they are all “hoping for the best.” 

”Competing and performing at games this year, especially for it being my senior year, would be such an amazing experience, but for now, we are just going to keep practicing with protocols for everyone’s safety & health,” stated Enriquez.

“As of right now we are not performing or competing but when school lets us, we will be ready.” said Tampubolon.

With practices originally being online, the team is excited and grateful for the opportunity to finally be back out on the mat and stunt again, even if that means staying six feet apart.