"Two-four-six-eight. Fourth place is truly great."

Not an official routine for the Kal Cheer squad, per se, it is potentially one they can work on, and with immense pride.

The team challenged themselves to compete at the World High School Cheerleading Championships in Orlando, Fla., in February, and came in fourth.

The event exposed the squad to participating with more than 25,000 cheerleaders from all over the world including Japan, Australia, and the host United States. 

"We were so proud of them as this was their first competition and they came out strong," said group spokesperson Nicola Nelson. "A big thank you goes out to the community for all of their help with fundraising and support for the team."

Kal Cheer is a newer team that continues to work hard while introducing a new sport in the Vernon School District.

The team is made up of athletes welcoming everyone from Grades 8-12 along with international students. They primarily practice at Kalamalka Secondary in Coldstream.

"You can see the team cheering at football, volleyball and basketball games, to name a few," said Nelson. "They love performing and encouraging local athletes with their sideline cheers and stunts."

The squad is looking to build the team for 2025-26, and are inviting any students from Grades 7-12 to come and try cheer in the month of April at no cost.

They practice Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m., and Nelson will have a sign-up sheet for anyone who would like to come out.

Kal Cheer also sends a special shout out to the Okanagan Learning Foundation, as they put a large amount of money away to help the squad buy mats. They can't practice without them.