West Forsyth Cheerleading Triumphs as State Champions

Photo - Courtesy of Marc Pruitt via facebook

The West Forsyth High School varsity cheerleading team brought the championship trophy home to Clemmons. The girls clinched the state championship in the Small Varsity Coed D1 Game Day Division.

The competition took place on Friday, January 9, 2026 at the NCHSAA Cheerleading Invitational held at the Cabarrus Arena and Events Center in Concord.

Facing off against five other teams, the Titans achieved a score of 78.50, narrowly surpassing runner-up Cox Mill High School, which scored 77.70.

The top three teams were separated by fewer than two points, with Dudley High School securing third place with 76.70 points.

Other competitors included West Charlotte High School, finishing fourth with 71 points, and Leesville Road High School, placing fifth with 67.75 points.

The victorious West Forsyth varsity team comprises captains Avery Garraghty, Kenzie Bullins, and Trinity Gress, along with team members Leah Papakostas, Ashlyn Reddick, Ella Bowman, Kate Grout, Charlotte Chadwick, Gabby Pruitt, Taylor McCoy, Skyler Barnes, Karon Williams, Imanii Todd, Lyla Yarbrough, Arianna Alston, Ruthie Rice, Scarlet Howard, Kate Lester, and Londyn Shaw.

The team is guided by coaches Naomi Channel and Hayli Harley, with choreography by Alexys and Bobbie Wilson.

In addition to the varsity team's success, the West Forsyth junior varsity squad achieved a commendable second place in the Small Junior Varsity D1 Game Day division.

The JV team includes members Aanyeha McFadden, Bella Hodges, Bella Sell, Carla Cervantes, Caylen DeTroye, Emma Bartholomaus, Evie Flynt, JaNyia Harris, Katilena Cushing, Kyra Baker, Leigha Hauck, Lily Fox-Scott, Sadie-Kate Prow, Samantha Morris, Stella Stainback, and Valerie Ponce.

Head coach Naomi Channel and assistant coach Dellana Sell lead the junior varsity team.

The Cabarrus Arena and Events Center in Concord, the venue for this year's invitational, has been a focal point for various community events.

Notably, the arena is set to host the CHEERSPORT Concord Classic on April 11, 2026, further solidifying its role in promoting cheerleading excellence in the region.

The success of the West Forsyth cheerleading teams not only highlights their dedication and skill but also underscores the supportive environment fostered by the Clemmons community.