Scotts Valley Elite All Star Cheer Dominates at USA Competition

The United Spirit Association Regional event held at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk on Sept. 30 hosted dozens of cheerleading teams from around California, but it was a hometown favorite that dominated the event.

Scotts Valley Elite All Star Cheer and Tumbling Gym, comprised of athletes ranging in age from 5 to 17, performed in five different divisions. The Scotts Valley Elite competitive cheer teams walked away with three first-place titles, one second-place trophy and one third-place trophy. 

"We have just started our third season, and having our teams perform so well at a local regional competition is a compliment to how hard our athletes have worked over the summer," said Deanna Heywood, head coach and owner of the Scotts Valley Elite All Star Cheer and Tumbling Gym. "We always say, 'Compete as a team, win as a family,' to our teams. We want our athletes to do their best, and know in their hearts that they gave it their all every time they come off the floor. Fortunately, this positive way of thinking and coaching were evident in the competition this weekend."

Every team in the All Star division performed a 2.5-minute routine, which included choreographed dancing, tumbling, stunting, jumps, motions and facial expressions. Judges scored every team based on technique, difficulty, cleanliness of motions, performance, showmanship and creativity. 

One of the Scotts Valley Elite teams competing had to overcome an athlete's injury the night before the competition.

"Our Black Rage team came together in support of their injured teammate and did not allow the obstacle to get in their way. They had to change their complete routine, including stunts, tumbling patterns and choreography, at the last minute and only had a few opportunities to do complete run-throughs before they walked on the floor. This team really represented, and secured a first place win on behalf of their injured teammate," Heywood said. "This is truly a testament to the 'family' that we have at Scotts Valley Elite."

Scotts Valley Elite All Stars will be heading to their next competition at the Jamz Royal Valley Championship in Fresno on Nov. 4. 

For more information on Scotts Valley Elite All Stars, visit www.valleyelitecheer.com.