Setting the bar higher, this year's SJO competitive cheer season sets the foundation for future success

Photo courtesty Emily Spisok

Members of the St. Joseph-Ogden competitive cheerleading team pose for a group photo after competiting at the Mascoutah section in January.

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ST. JOSEPH - Precision, teamwork, and dedication defined the St. Joseph-Ogden High School cheerleading squad’s 2024-25 season as the team made an impact in sideline spirit and competition.

"This year’s team received numerous compliments at regular-season games and competitions from coaches and squads alike as they showcased their abilities," said four-year head coach Emily Spisok. "I’m very proud of the team’s progress this year and their coachability. I look forward to building on this year’s success."

Under Spisok and assistant Savannah Woods, the Spartans began training in May 2024 for their 10-month season. Balancing regular practices with performances at football games in the fall and basketball contests in winter, the team also added two home soccer games to its schedule while refining its routine for the competitive cheer season.

The St. Joseph-Ogden varsity cheer competition season ran from Dec. 7, 2024, to Feb. 1, 2025, culminating at the IHSA sectionals. The squad's hard work paid off early as SJO placed third in its first competition against a field of 21 teams, earning a spot at the Illinois Cheerleading Coaches Association (ICCA) State Championships.

In one of the state's toughest sectionals, the Spartans delivered a strong performance. SJO finished 11th in the small school division behind St. Thomas More and South Fork at the Mascoutah sectional, where the top three teams finished sixth or higher at the state finals in Bloomington a week later.

"The biggest challenge was illnesses and injuries. The team really pushed through and worked hard on all necessary changes to improve the routine each week," Spisok said, reflecting on the Spartans' season.

Led by seniors Addison Funk, Samantha Uden, Ava Worley, and Charley Wright, St. Joseph-Ogden's roster also featured returning sophomores Iris Davis, Leah Gaines, Faith Jackson, Peighton Reim, and Ava Smoot. Freshmen Aubrey Matheny, Abby Reynolds, Alysson Robinson, Samantha Ryan, Addison Walsh, and Sorena Welsh brought new energy to the program.

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