Yuma Catholic Shamrocks Claim State Cheer Championship in Phoenix

The Yuma Catholic Shamrocks captured the Division 4 Game Day State Championship on December 4 at Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix, ending a long championship drought for the cheer program and adding to the school s legacy of athletic success. The nine member squad advanced through a competitive qualifying round and finals to secure the title, which is the program s second cheer state championship and the school s nineteenth state championship overall.

Head coach Hailey Curry praised the team for meeting high expectations. Senior captain Janelle Guzman described the win as surreal for a young rebuilt squad that lost several members to graduation last year. The team is expected to be honored on campus in the coming days, an event that will offer residents a chance to celebrate the athletes and recognize the volunteer coaches and families who supported them.

Beyond the trophy, the victory carries implications for Yuma County s community wellbeing. Strong extracurricular programs like cheer provide structured physical activity for adolescents, contribute to mental health and social connection, and give students a pathway to leadership and teamwork. For a program that rebuilt after losing key members to graduation, the title also underscores the importance of continuity in coaching, access to practice facilities, and funding for travel to regional competitions.

The win may also influence local school policy conversations. Sustaining successful programs requires stable budgets for transportation, equipment, and coaching stipends, and it raises questions about equitable access across the county s schools. Ensuring that students from lower income families can participate without undue financial burden will determine whether Yuma s athletic successes are broadly shared.

As the Shamrocks return home, community leaders, parents, and school administrators have an opportunity to translate this moment of pride into concrete support for youth development. The campus honor planned for the coming days will be a public chance to celebrate the athletes, recognize the community effort behind their success, and consider how to keep pathways open for future teams.