3 Viking cheerleaders named All American

The 2022-23 Siuslaw Viking cheer team. (From left) back row: Captain Ally Contreras, Kyrianna Masterman, MJ Fontenot, Captain Gillian Norton, Layna Messenger, Co-Captain Ashlyn Hart, Madison McCullough, Michalea Norton, Co-Captain Claire Lindell. Middle row: Henlee Burns, Olivia Moore, Rosa Velasco-Mendez, Maya Vogt, Parker Sydow, Rose Armstrong, Katelynn Masterman. Front row: Manager Eryn Morgan and Anessa McNaughton. Not pictured: Elliot Dotson. Photo courtesy of Teri Straley

Hart, Norton and Sydow will cheer around country and world

Sept. 27, 2022 — The Siuslaw cheer team is in the heart of its fall season. The team can be found at every home football and volleyball game, bringing out the best in fans while cheering on Viking athletes. In addition to cheering at sporting events and supporting athletics, the team also participates in competitions around the state. One event coming up is the Game Day Championship on Oct. 8 at Sherwood Middle School.

Siuslaw cheerleaders also, occasionally, compete individually. Recently, three Viking cheerleaders made the USA All American Team.

Senior Gillian Norton, junior Parker Sydow and sophomore Ashlyn Hart all competed at the “At Our Home USA Cheer Camp.” They were able to learn from home, where they showcased their skills such as cheering ability, sharpness, jumps and their overall spirit.

According to Siuslaw Coach Teri Straley, Norton, Sydow and Hart were fitted for uniforms and then learned the cheers and dances on their own before joining their teammates at the location days before the event to participate.

By being chosen for the USA All American Team, these three cheerleaders will perform at special events across the country and world, such as the Varsity Spirit Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Hawaii.

Look for the Siuslaw cheer team at the next home game for the Viking football team, Oct. 7 versus Elmira at Hans Petersen Memorial Field. Kick-off is 7 p.m.