Port St. Joe cheerleaders compete at state finals

Contending for the first time in the Coed tumbling category, the Port St. Joe competitive cheer squad ended the day placing fifth at the 2023 FHSAA 1A Small Coed Finals in Gainesville on Friday, Feb. 3. 

Earlier in the day, the Tiger Sharks finished first in their semi-final matchup, earning a higher score than Sebring, Anclote, and Kings Academy High Schools. 

Coach Stephanie Petersen’s charges were able to compete in the Coed division after the addition of Tristan Connell, whose presence allowed them to “move difficulty to the next level.” 

“All 13 athletes worked hard to bring a very competitive routine to life,” said Peterson, who singled out her lone senior, “Taylor Campbell (who) helped lead our young squad to a phenomenal finish. We wish her the best as she moves on to college.” 

Peterson expressed words of thanks to “our school, our community, and our families for all of their support.” 

Members of the Tiger Shark cheer team are, in alphabetical order: Taylor Campbell, Tristan Connell, Kingsley Hopper, MaKayla Hopper, Bryleigh Jones, Dana Kelly, Javana Pearson, Ava Petersen, Hannah Petersen, Lelia Smith, Lia Taylor, Zoe TeVault, and Reagan Thomas. 

“We are excited for the future,” said Petersen, because “the talent continues to grow, and we have our eyes set on a state title in 2024!”