Imagine the thrill of dominating the cheerleading stage year after year—it's a testament to grit, teamwork, and unbreakable spirit that leaves everyone in awe. In the world of high school athletics, few achievements shine as brightly as these repeat victories in Colorado's spirit championships.
DENVER - The excitement didn't stop at the Colorado High School Activities Association's 2025 Spirit State Championships held on Friday at the Denver Coliseum. Following the crowning of the All-Girl Cheer State Champions (check out the details here: https://chsaanow.com/news/2025/12/12/spirit-all-girl-cheer-state-champions-2025.aspx), the spotlight shifted to the Co-Ed Cheer competitions. For those new to cheerleading, Co-Ed means teams with both male and female athletes, often incorporating impressive lifts, stunts, and tumbling that showcase strength and synchronization—think high-flying pyramids and powerful tosses that demand trust and precision.
What makes this year's results even more remarkable? All three Co-Ed champions defended their titles from the previous season, proving that consistency at the top is no easy feat. DSST: Cedar soared to victory in the 2A/3A division for the second year running, Coal Ridge clinched the 4A crown for an astonishing eighth consecutive time, and Castle View secured the 5A gold for the third straight season. But here's where it gets controversial: does this kind of dynasty-building inspire young athletes or create an unfair barrier for underdogs? We'll circle back to that.
Let's dive into the 2A/3A Co-Ed Cheer showdown. DSST: Cedar, the Falcons, repeated as state champs, bringing home another trophy that highlights their growing legacy. Coach Sam Barton shared her thoughts on the win, explaining how experience plays a huge role. "Entering the competition with that prior success boosts your confidence immensely," she noted. "It allows the team to stay calm under pressure. We drilled tougher techniques and emphasized self-trust, along with faith in our preparation and each other. And boy, did they deliver!"
Barton also opened up about the challenges they faced. "This week was tough—with illnesses and injuries popping up, neither of our routines was flawless. But these kids poured their hearts into every moment, and I'm incredibly proud." In the finals, DSST: Cedar tallied an impressive 71.5 points, edging out Wiley in second place at 68.2 and Alamosa in third with 66.1. For a school like DSST: Cedar, these back-to-back titles are their only state championships to date, though they've come close before, finishing as runners-up in both 2022 and 2023. As Barton put it, "Last year, we only graduated one senior, and most of the team were freshmen or sophomores new to this level. Even now, half the squad is still learning the ropes—they've got so much potential ahead."
Shifting to the 4A Co-Ed Cheer category, Coal Ridge started the day in second place after the prelims but stormed back with a flawless, zero-deduction performance in the finals. This victory extends their unbelievable streak to eight years in a row, a run that's the envy of many programs. Coach Alyssa Thurman addressed the weight of those expectations head-on: "Sure, there's pressure to maintain a legacy like this, but our focus is on thorough preparation. We train them so well that they step onto the mat feeling ready to nail every element."
Coal Ridge finished with a strong 82.10 score, well ahead of Roosevelt's 77.35 in second. Thurman credited their success to more than just skill: "It's all about dedication and that special team bond. This group was outstanding—we welcomed 14 newcomers this season and only had six veterans returning. They hustled like pros and made it happen." And this is the part most people miss: blending fresh faces with seasoned ones isn't always seamless, yet Coal Ridge turned it into a strength, showing how chemistry can trump experience.
Finally, in the 5A Co-Ed Cheer event, Castle View continued their reign with a third consecutive title. Over the past six years, they've won five times, and in the last 12 seasons, nine championships—numbers that scream dominance. Head coach Tatum Reel captured the emotional high: "This victory means the world to us. Repeating success season after season is brutally challenging. As the saying goes, reaching the pinnacle is tough, but holding onto it? That's the real battle."
Reel reflected on their journey: "This season tested them with plenty of highs, lows, and unexpected hurdles. But they emerged tougher each time, including today. It's the perfect capstone to a resilient year." The finals were nail-bitingly close, with Castle View at 88.25, Highlands Ranch right behind at 86.10, and Pueblo West in third with 85.80. For beginners watching, this closeness illustrates how even tiny execution details—like a steady base in a stunt or crisp timing in jumps—can tip the scales.
The championships wrap up tomorrow with the dance categories, featuring jazz, poms, and hip-hop performances. If you're into high-energy routines that blend athleticism with artistry, don't miss it—prelims kick off at 9 a.m., and finals start at 3:12 p.m.
Now, let's stir the pot a bit: while these repeat wins are inspiring tales of perseverance, some might argue they highlight inequities in resources or coaching across schools. Is this dominance a model for excellence, or does it stifle competition? What do you think—does celebrating streaks like Coal Ridge's motivate more kids to join cheer, or does it discourage newcomers? Drop your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear if you're Team Underdog or Team Dynasty!
