Pictured is the 2025 Randolph cheerleading team at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association championships. Submitted photo

The Randolph Central School cheerleaders have taken the area by storm, setting a high bar for competitive cheer programs and proving that cheerleading is a sport demanding skill, teamwork and determination. Their exceptional performances this season have captivated audiences and showcased their athleticism, precision, and dedication.

Throughout the winter basketball season, the RCS cheerleaders not only brought energy and spirit to the boys and girls home games but also competed in the Section VI-sanctioned cheerleading competitions. Unlike the fall game-day performances, the winter season introduced a different challenge — competitive cheer. This high-energy routine demands athletes to execute a flawless 2-minute, 30-second performance, incorporating a cheer, stunting, jumps, tumbling, pyramids and a dance sequence.

During their regular season, the Randolph cheerleaders competed in three Section VI-sanctioned competitive cheer competitions where they finished first twice (Eden and Starpoint) and second once (Gowanda).

Their dominance continued at the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Athletic Assocation Competitive League Championship, where they secured first place, marking their third consecutive CCAA Class D title. Their winning streak did not stop there. The team went on to compete in the Section VI Championship, where they once again took home 1st place in Class D, making them back-to-back sectional champions.

Winning sectionals earned the team a coveted spot at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Competitive Cheer State Championship, where it delivered a perfect routine with zero deductions, earning it a spot in the finals. With the top five teams advancing to the final round, the Cardinals showcased their excellence once again, ultimately finishing fourth in the state out of 10 teams.

The Randolph cheerleaders have had a whirlwind season, and their accomplishments extend far beyond the competition floor. These athletes maintain impressive grade-point averages and actively engage in numerous community service projects, embodying the true spirit of leadership and dedication.

Their coaches could not be more proud of their work ethic, perseverance and ability to uplift their teammates and school community.

As the season comes to a close, the Randolph cheerleaders say goodbye to seniors Erin Briggs, MaKenna Burrows, Chloe Chadwick, Lindsey Plaskett, Nichole Smith, Isa Syracuse and Lily Thompson, whose contributions and leadership have left an enduring legacy. Their dedication has set a standard for future Randolph cheerleaders, and their coaches are forever grateful for the time, effort, and heart they have poured into the program.

The remainder of the team includes Grace Benson, Chloe Braley, Gabriella Chapman, Aubrey Green, Mara Harvey, Zoey Hernandez, Rileigh Jensen, Alyia Oliverio, Mia Olofson and Ryann Rowland.

The coaching staff includes head coach Abbie Shevlin, and assistant coaches Ashley Olofson and Sydney Francis.