JHS Cheer Places 4th in State
By John Earp
This past Saturday, the Jal High School Cheer Team traveled to Albuquerque to compete in the NMAA State Cheer Competition, held at The Pit at the University of New Mexico. JHS Cheer has excelled this year, winning numerous first and second place awards at various regional and statewide cheer competitions. The level of competition at the state level was definitely top notch, but the girls from JHS represented their school, their town, and their families well but finishing in fourth place overall.
The Panther Cheerleader Team for 2025-2026 includes: (Seniors) Janice Ramirez, Amyrra Stone, Ebany Aguilar, and Jaden Mendoza, (Juniors) Yahaira Amaro, Olivia Ramirez, Emery Melancon, Yaracely Juarez, Alejandra Mendoza, Ruby Gallegos, Issela Mendoza, Amylah Melancon, (Sophomores) Elizabeth Lujan and Leilene Chavez, (Freshman) Marsi Gomez, (8th Graders) Ayerim Veliz, Fatima Flores, Jesslyn Estrada, Claire Seifts, Sydnee Navarrette, and Bella Sanchez. Managers are Estrella Santillan and Malidy Arriaga. The JHS Cheer Team is headed up by Coach Katia Martinez, with Assistant Cheer Coach Priscilla Zamora heading up the tumbling and gymnastics practices.