The Mid American Pompon States competition took place Feb. 7 rounding out the year-long season for Pom. Plymouth Varsity took fourth place falling six points behind Canton Varsity who placed second behind Garden City. Not to be outdone; the Plymouth JV team won state championships.

The Saberettes and Chiefettes started the season at camp in July, both earning Grand Champs when scored for each team’s individual ability. Canton also earned the Showmanship Award and every girl that tried out for the All-Star pompon team earned a spot.

“The season started off really strong,” said Canton junior Alia Jones. “There were some bumps in the road, which can be said for almost every sport. However, we pushed through and made the rest of the season great.”

Right after camp, both teams began preparation for the Mid American Hip Hop and High Kick Championship on Nov. 8, 2015. Canton placed second with their salt and pepper themed routine and Plymouth followed third with their librarians routine. Plymouth also participated in the Hip Hop portion placing fifth out of six teams.

“Competing in hip hop this year was something Plymouth Pom hasn’t done in a while,” Erin Berger, Plymouth junior said. “We may not have placed like we would have hoped but the main goal was to have fun while doing it, which we were able to accomplish!”

The second and final competition is states. Plymouth and Canton both compete in the large varsity division one and are each other’s biggest supporters. When one of the teams performs, the other is sitting front row to watch and cheer for their fellow P-CEP pommers.

“My best friend since second grade is on Plymouth and it’s nice to keep our friendship alive with a friendly rivalry while sharing our love for Pom,” said Jones. “It’s nice to be able to support each other at competitions since we all know each other.”

Even though Plymouth didn’t place in the top three as they normally do, their spirits are still high. Plymouth Junior Olivia Dillaha said, “We didn’t need the judges to tell us we were good, we knew it in our hearts through our passion and dedication that we did it...we walked off the floor feeling like we had just won.”

As for next year, both teams emphasize on their goals for hard work and team bonding.

“Next year we definitely want to keep the same momentum we ended the season with,” said Jones. “One of our goals is always to be one big family and support each other no matter what.”

“Next year we want to work just as much, if not harder, to prepare for our competitions. Not only that but we want to grow and get closer as a team,” said Berger.

As for this year: Plymouth will officially end their run with Variety Show April 15.