On Feb. 14-18 the Allen Community College spirit squad went to Anaheim, Calif., for the United Spirit Association national cheer competition for the first time in several years.

After months of preparation, Coach Mackenize Weseloh said the team was very excited to have qualified to compete.

With the team only having 16 people, they were placed in the small co-ed division along with a few other junior colleges and universities. Guidelines required each team to perform a two-minute routine with a cheer/chant at the end.

The Allen spirit squad held a few fund raisers and spent up to 15 hours weekly practicing to make this trip possible. Coach Marialle Melvin said she was most thrilled about seeing the team’s hard work pay off on competition day.

The spirit squad took home fourth place, scoring only eight points away from first place in their division.

Cheer captain Carmelita Soto-Roberts said she was most excited about being able to travel and see the state of California with her closest friends and teammates.

Outside of the competition the Allen Spirit Squad got to explore Anaheim. They went shopping at the outlet mall, ate some Italian ice, and visited one of Snoop Dog’s favorite restaurants.