CITIZEN STAFF REPORT

WILLIAMSBURG — The Martin County High School Cheerleaders are the KHSAA Region 8 All-Girls Super Division champions. They won the award Saturday in competition at the University of the Cumberlands.

The All-Girls Super Division requires a minimum of 24 and a maximum of 30 team members.

Martin County delivered a flawless performance with the team “hitting zero.”

Senior cheerleader Kennadi Mollet, reflecting on the journey and victory, remarked, “Winning was everything we have worked for. We overcame multiple setbacks and injuries. From the morning practices before school to the 5-hour long weekend practices, I believe we represented Martin County High School well.”

The road to success was not without its challenges. The team faced injuries and setbacks in their routine, but they persisted as coaches Nikki Moore and Jackie Maynard called on middle school cheerleaders to fill their roster.

Ernay Adams, a former Marshall University and Sheldon Clark High School cheerleader came onboard with a wealth of experience to ensure a top-notch performance. She created the music, formations, stunts, dance and cheer for the competition.

“I loved being able to choreograph the routine for the squad,” Adams said. “It had been about 10 years since the last routine I choreographed for the then SCHS. My goal was to bring positive energy. Many of the girls had never stunted at this level before, so the coaches were instrumental in teaching and conditioning them for a jam-packed 2-1/2-minute routine.”

Adams also expressed her deep connection to Martin County.

“Martin County is my home, and I tell everyone how proud I am of that every chance I get,” she said. “There’s no other team I’d rather help to be successful than MCHS.”