Kelly flips and flys to to second straight state title

The Kelly cheerleading team stands for a photo after capturing their second consecutive MCCA Class 2A Small Division State Championship. The team includes Trystyn Ziegler, Claire Davis, Laynie Stone, Rylee Guthrie, Katie Heacox, Chloe Smith, Lillie Bartlett, Olivia Cross, Cara Hammon, Skylar Eftink, Kyni Duenne, Daylee Buchanan, Aubriana Juarez-Graves, Andie Munoz, head coaches Billy Hoskins and Shaina Cooper and tumbling coaches Molly Hanes and Tammy Hanners.

Submitted

COLUMBIA, Mo. — With a legacy of excellence, Kelly added another feather to its cap by winning the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association (MCCA) Class 2A Small Division state title for the second year in a row.

This victory, achieved on Nov. 2 at the University of Missouri, marks the program's seventh state title and the sixth under the leadership of head coach Billy Hoskins.

"What truly sets this team apart is their ability to lead each other,” Hoskins said. “They're not just teammates; they're coaches on the field, constantly pushing each other to be better. My role is to provide the framework, the discipline, and the high standards. But it's their collective drive and self-motivation that truly fuels their success."

Kelly cheerleading coaches Molly Hanners, Shaina Cooper, Billy Hoskins and Tammy Hanners stand for a photo after the team captured its second MCCA Class 2A Small Division State Championship in a row.

Submitted

The journey to this year's state title was paved with hard work and dedication. The cheerleaders at Kelly have consistently demonstrated their commitment to excellence, with each member contributing to the team's success.

Trystan Ziegler, a senior on the team, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their talents, stating, "It is a really great opportunity. It’s a blessing to be able to share our talents with the community."

The weight of expectation hung heavy over the team as they sought to defend their title. Yet, the Lady Hawks, fueled by their unmatched attitude and defiant spirit, rose to the challenge.

"We knew we needed to work harder than the year before,” said senior Laynie Stone. “The increased pressure brought us closer together. We pushed each other to our limits, and in the end, it was all worth it.”

In addition to the team's collective success, Stone was selected as an all-state base. This recognition highlights her exceptional skill and strength, which are crucial in providing the foundation for complex stunts and pyramids.

or the senior cheerleaders, this state championship win is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. As they prepare to graduate, this victory serves as a fitting tribute to their time on the team.

"It means so much to represent our school and community in this way," said senior Claire Davis. "It’s an honor to put on this uniform.”

Kelly finished with a team score of 93.00, narrowly edging out Centralia, which scored 91.90. The competition was fierce, with Fair Grove (88.13), Blair Oaks (87.17), John Burroughs (79.17), East Newton (75.13), Highland (74.50), and Jefferson (67.40) also vying for the top spot.

The Lady Hawks’ performance was distinguished by the high scores in several key categories, including dance (9.00), creativity (8.83), motions (8.27), and transitions/formations (8.77).