MECA’s Cheer Team kicked off their season in spectacular fashion, taking stage at one of college football’s most anticipated matchups: the UCLA Bruins vs. the Minnesota Gophers. Performing before a roaring crowd at the Rose Bowl, MECA’s talented cheerleaders energized the fans, showcasing their impressive stunts, high-energy routines, and school spirit. Their appearance at such a notable event not only put their skills on display but also highlighted the growing impact of Mt. SAC Early College Academy in the district.
The MECA Spirit Squad is coached by Julie Shigo, who is also an Office Assistant on campus. She started the squad last school year in 2023, and they were very successful for it only being their first year. Coach Julie has lot’s of experience with coaching cheer teams as she has coached various teams in the past. The spirit squad has been practicing since the beginning of summer after their tryouts, putting in hard work for their competition and performance season.
The squad did an impeccable job performing at the game and cheering on those Bruins at this much anticipated game. Some seniors on the team even got noticed by the UCLA dance coaches and were invited to try out. Even Timmy was noticed at the game because he was the only school mascot there and the crowd loved him! The game was close as the score was 21 for Minnesota and 17 for UCLA. MECA’S spirit squad had been preparing to perform at the game many weeks in advance, where they had to practice two different dances to perform at the game. Jasmine Arce, a 9th grader at MECA, who is on the spirit squad stated that she had never performed at a huge game like that, and it’s something they hadn’t done as a team so, “performing at a UCLA football game and going out there… That was fun. It was something I have not done in cheerleading before, so I liked it”.
When asked how cheerleading has impacted Jasmine’s life, she stated that, “It’s made me come a bit out of my shell and my comfort zone because I’m a wrestler, and I did jujitsu all my life before cheerleading. So I went from beating people up to cheering them on. So it was a switch, and it’s a kinda nice switch”. Now, the team is preparing for their upcoming Christmas parades, and also a performance at Vine Elementary, where Jasmine hopes that maybe, “we can inspire them to do something that might be out of their comfort zone or find themselves because that is kind of what cheerleading does”.
UCLA is a school known for their sports teams, especially basketball and football. Minnesota also has a history of winning in their football games. The competition between them is energetic, and it set up for a great game between the two. When the final whistle blew, however, Minnesota came out on top.
(Image by Julie Shigo)
MECA’s cheer team performance not only lifted the spirits of the crowd but also showcased the growing talent and influence of Mt. SAC’s Early College Academy. Whether it’s an exciting win or a challenging loss, MECA’s cheerleaders proved that school spirit doesn’t fade—it only grows stronger.
This thrilling season opener was just the beginning for MECA’s cheerleaders, and as they continue their journey, one thing is certain: wherever they go, they’ll bring the same level of energy, enthusiasm, and pride. Here’s to many more unforgettable performances ahead!
