Stagg Cheerleaders Target State Competition

When Bridget Guzior was a cheerleader at Carl Sandburg High School, she didn't plan on one day becoming the head coach at nearby Stagg High School.

"I came from a great program and was taught the right way," Guzior said.

Something must be working for the first-year coach now at home with the Chargers. Stagg's varsity cheerleading squad took third place in an IHSA invitational last weekend.

Her squad couldn't be prouder.

Varsity squad Captain Paige Pierson points to her mentor and coach as a driving force.

"I think she will get us to the to the [state] level. This routine that we've learned has really helped us," Pierson said.

Senior and varsity cheerleader Delaney Harty from Palos Park can't believe how far they have come in the past few years.

"We were shocked to get third place this past week-end," Harty said. "This year, getting a chance to get to [state] is exciting. We're shooting for that."

Guzior makes the girls go over their routine several times during a recent practice, making sure each flip is right and that each girl has a smile on her face.

"We have incorporated many new skills in the last six months," Guzior explains.

What's their secret to success?

"The most important part, this year, is that we've come together as a team," Guzior said. "The team is really talented. Their hard work has paid off. The girls put in endless time and commitment—as well as their parents, the community and the program as a whole."

"I'm proud to be a Charger," she said.

Join the conversation. Friend Palos Patch on Facebook and sign up for the daily email newsletter!