By: Jak Lindsey

The Owensboro High School Cheer Squads capped off the 2023-2024 season by competing in the UCA Nationals at the happiest place on earth, Disney World from February 9-11. Hundreds of teams from all over the United States descended upon Orlando, FL for a chance to claim their spot as national champions during this magical week. Here is a little rundown of how our trip to see Mickey transpired…

Wednesday: Hopped on the charter bus and headed south. Hit Macon, GA around 9:00 PM EST, then hit the hay. 

Thursday: Woke up, back on the bus, and off to Orlando. Once getting there, we hit a light and productive practice. Afterwards, we were able to carouse around Disney Springs to see everything the magical mouse had to offer.

Friday: Competition day. Both teams woke up early to head to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Both teams competed in their respective divisions with both their 2.5 and Game Day routines. After a long day of cheering, we headed to get something to eat and get back to the condos.

Saturday: Park day. Both Red and Black squads were able to spend their day roaming the parks with friends and family. Best ride, Expedition Everest hands down. Once we got done at the parks, we were able to go to the mall to eat and shop.

Sunday: Woke up and hit the parks again. After a few hours of riding rides, we headed back to the condos to watch the Super Bowl (Chiefs won, boo…) and got a quick swim in before having to leave for Owensboro. Left Orlando around 10:00 PM EST.

Monday: Arrived in Owensboro around 12:00 PM CST and my last trip to Disney with OHS Cheer was in the books.

Not only did both squads have fun, but we all made memories to look back on for years to come. A big thanks to Red Squad seniors Madalyn Kirk, Jamasia Robinson, Halee Jo McDaniel, and Kiersten Taylor. And another shout out to Black Squad seniors LuLu Greer, Jasmine Buck, Sydney Fowler-Finch, Ja’Shawn Carr, and Jak Lindsey for all y’all have done to help this program.

As always, it’s a great day to be a Red Devil.