Bulldogs Bring the Pep: Baker High Cheerleading squad heads to state
By Joe Hathaway on Wednesday, February 7th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER CITY — After two strong performances in regional competitions, the Baker High Cheerleading team has its sights set on a state title this week.
The Bulldogs qualified for state under unique circumstances. Due to the ice and snow storm that blasted Oregon last month, the squad had to embrace a virtual format, filming their routine in the gym at Baker High, then submitting for judgment.
“That was interesting, but a lot of fun,” said Head Coach Kendra Gonzalez.
As the weather calmed down, the team was able to travel to West Linn for another qualifying round to punch their ticket to the state competition.
The Bulldogs now head back over to the west side this week, where the state competition will take place at Oregon City High School.
“It’s been a long time since Baker’s competed at state for cheerleading, so we’re a little nervous but I feel really good about my team”, said Gonzalez. “It’s interesting because I don’t think they really realize how good they are.”
Baker will compete this week in the new “GameDay Division”, a unique facet of Oregon cheerleading featuring four components: a band chant, a situational portion requiring quick thinking from the cheerleaders, the use of props such as signs and pom-poms, and a three-minute time limit for the entire routine. The team’s score heavily depends on their ability to engage the crowd with coordinated routines that align with game day scenarios.
“It’s kind of taking what we were already doing at games and just kind of zhuzhing it up a little bit and making it competition-worthy,” said Gonzalez.
The Baker cheerleading squad is scheduled to compete on the evening of Friday, February 9th against schools in the 4A/3A/2A/1A classifications.
“I feel good about where we are and excited about this week,” said Gonzalez. “I just want them to have this experience so they can build from it.”.
