LOA's middle school competition team beat out the competition by 21.5 points to win first place at the Tiger Cheer Classic in Commerce. (l to r, top row: Head Coach Jennifer Blythe, Jaida Tripp, Lauren Mortimer, Ollie Bragg, Grace Finch, McKenna Young, Sienna Wojciechowicz, Sydney Pattison, Ava Ciavola, Lainee Carter, Assistant Coach Nellie Maddox (l to r, front row): Mackenzie Brown, Ella Blythe, Hallie Beth Rhodes, Lexi Moss, Thea Smith, Emmy Hill and Avery Lee.

The Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) Cheer Titans took first place at the Ninth Annual Tiger Cheer Classic at Commerce High School on Saturday, Sept. 28. The LOA middle school team dominated the small division, beating the competition by 21.5 points. The LOA varsity team delivered a solid performance with no deductions, winning the A division.

“I couldn’t be prouder of these girls,” said LOA Head Cheer Coach Jennifer Blythe. “They have put in countless hours of practice and are beginning to see the fruits of their labor. Every girl really gave it her all today.”

Blythe remains excited for what lies ahead this season. Both teams have three more scheduled competitions before the varsity team heads to state sectionals at the beginning of November.

“This is really just the beginning for these girls,” said Blythe. “We’re excited to keep competing and to keep developing this competitive cheer program. These girls are committed to excellence and are determined to bring home some more big wins this season.”

Blythe has been building the cheer program at LOA over the last four years. In that short time, the program has earned an enviable reputation. The middle school team has held the title of Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) Champion for the last three years. Last year, the high school team finished fourth at the state championships. 

The Cheer Titans’ next competition will be at Union Grove High School on Oct. 19.