Newtown High School’s cheerleading squad made it two straight South-West Conference championships, prevailing among 13 rival schools with a score of 184.2 at Weston High on February 7. Second-place Masuk scored 163 points and third-place New Fairfield had 144.

“The girls performed beautifully. Before we took the mat, we asked each of them to stay calm and do their job. They have worked incredibly hard since August getting stronger and perfecting skills,” Coach Susan Bridges said.

The cheerleaders have practiced their stunts and teamwork, and put them to the test along the sidelines at football and basketball games since the school year started. The competition season began in the winter, and continues with the state competition in early March.

“We could not be more proud of this team. They are a great group of kids – they love and respect each other. We will continue to push ourselves to be our best as we prepare for State Championship on March 7,” Bridges said.

Caitlin Delohery and Lori Rohrbacher help coach the team. The lineup is as follows: Kate Skalkos, Sophia Matsis, Maddy Bridges, Jess Mullany, Liz Zambernardi, Laken Hughes, Lindsay Skalkos, Chloe Amante, Mackenzie Woodhouse, Annika Alexander, Allie Muzzio, Isabelle Silver, Caroline Daria, Abby Pearson, Anna Steare, Katie McCabe, Taylor Miller, Lexy Leidlein, and Olivia Mubarek.