After another historic run, Schaumburg Cheer has ended its season with a fourth place finish in the IHSA Finals.
The Schaumburg High School cheer team continued its tradition of excellence by earning their sixth consecutive Mid- Suburban League conference title, which took place at Fremd High School, a third straight sectional title, and finishing fourth at the IHSA State Finals in Bloomington, Illinois.
These accomplishments extend the most successful stretch in program history. Over the past four years, Schaumburg consistently and steadily improved their state ranking, finishing ninth in 2023, eight in 2024, and second in 2025, all while building a six year conference and three year sectional streak, making this program one of the best in Illinois.
Placing fourth in one of the largest divisions in IHSA, the Saxons scored a 95.50 with zero deductions. After scoring a 94.24 and placing fourth after day one, the Saxons improved their score by more than one point, finishing the competition behind only Lincolnway East (97.92), Lockport (97.0), and Edwardsville (96.88). “We struggled with consistency for a while, so to finally hit so well was such an exciting and happy experience” said senior, Jianna Kerimi, a two time All- Conference athlete.
The team secured its conference win on January 21st at Fremd High School before winning sectionals ten days later, to advance to state. The consistent post season victories proved the programs continued dominance at the conference and sectional level, despite a slow start to the season.
With such an immense amount of talent packed into one program, the Saxons were destined for a great season. The team features three All- State athletes, including Audrey Gilford, Melrose Stilling, and May Tachibana, in addition to six All- Conference athletes.
With struggles involving consistency leading into sectionals, their hit zero routine at sectionals was definitely a defining moment.
The core of the team being made up of seniors made this season extra meaningful for all.
“Winning conference for the sixth year in a row meant everything to us… the energy in that moment was unforgettable” said senior Audrey Gilford, a four time All-Conference and three time All- State athlete.
Gilford also credited the team’s bond and closeness for its successes over the past several years.
“We grew closer throughout the season and continued to trust one another, and that connection showed and improved in every performance” she said.
With this year’s routine being wedding -themed and having won brand new white uniforms, the Saxons pushed all year to earn that ring.
Cheer for the IHSA is a continuous sport running from June through February, team-building and perfecting skills from the very beginning. A sweet ending to another phenomenal season rewarded all their hard work.
With a large, strong, senior class graduating, the program has some big shoes to fill. But, there is no doubt that the future of Schaumburg Cheerleading will continue to shine brightly.