The poms team had their first virtual practice Mar. 2. They practiced virtually  every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 3:30-5 p.m.. The new junior captains this year were Sophie Friedman and Amanda Slud and their jobs during practice were to lead stretches and teach dances to the rest of the team throughout the entirety of the season. 

During practices, the team practiced old and new techniques, along with various dances in preparation for upcoming competitions. The poms were disappointed that hose competitions never happened due to COVID-19. Poms was one of few sports including cheerleading, volleyball and others that did not get a chance to compete and remained virtual the whole season. 

The short season ended Mar. 26 and consisted only of the weekly practices. “I was sad we couldn’t perform because I really love going to football games but I’m happy that my team could still be together virtually,” junior Ella Cooper said.

It is also extremely upsetting for the seniors, who will not be able to compete for their last year. “I’m super disappointed that I couldn’t have a normal senior season like every senior before me did, but last season was unbeatable and so much fun so I’m thankful I was able to end on that high note,” senior Jillian Pohoryles said. 

Some good news is that this year the Poms team got a new coach, MJ Davis. “I like that our new coach gives us the flexibility to choose what we want to work on in practice and lets us captains take the reins on choreographing routines and running the team,” Pohoryles said. 

The team had incredible potential this year, as well as new faces. The new sophomores on the team are Danielle Land, Lyndsie Lewis, Caitlyn Clifton and Emma Song. They also added freshmen Lily King, Maya Halpern and Samantha Lau. 

The team has a reputation to uphold. Last year, they placed seventh, second and sixth place in county competitions. 

In hopes of a no-COVID life next year, the girls are excited to get back out there and do what they do best in the fall. “I’m excited to get back on the football field and get to choreograph dances for the new teams. I’m also very excited to see my teammates again and meet the new members on the team,” junior Sophie Friedman said.

If anyone is interested in joining poms, feel free to monitor woottonsports.com for further updates about tryouts for the fall, or get in touch with any of the current poms members.