by Peggy Cobrin published
Feb. 07, 2011
More than 100 people came out to show their support at a Sunday assembly for the cheerleading team.The latest champions at Lake Zurich High School (LZHS), the first place varsity cheerleading squad, received a warm welcome home from the state championships on Sunday at an assembly at the school.The varsity cheerleaders placed first in the Large Squad division in the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Competitive Cheerleading Competition held in Bloomington-Normal over the weekend.The cheerleading team walked into the field house, hand-in-hand, welcomed by a standing ovation, from more than 100 parents, family, friends, and supporters sporting blue and black and waving handmade signs.They deserved it because they worked so hard this year, said Gail Drake, supporter.Their climb to the top included winning First Place at the Huntley Invitational, Fourth Place at the Super CDA Invitational, Second Place at the North Suburban Invitational, First Place at the Grayslake North Invitational, First Place at the Jacobs Invitational, First Place at sectionals at Grayslake North, and finally winning it all downstate in Bloomington and becoming IHSA State Champions in the large division title on Saturday, Feb. 5.Its a dream come true, said Nettie Shaffer, LZHS parent.