The Evanston High School cheer team was in Casper late last month for the 2025 State Spirit Competition, and though the team was smaller in size and competing in a larger classification, the Lady Devils performed well, placing fifth in the 4A All-Girl Stunt category.

This year’s State Spirit squad — Talia Case, Lizzy Ellsworth, Ellika Fredenberg, Ashlyn Kopp, Olivia Miller, Catie Morrow and Josie Wilson — had the distinction of being the smallest team in 4A, though undoubtedly with the biggest heart.

“Overall, the team performed incredibly well,” said EHS head coach Sidney Lebert, who — along with assistant coach Holly Blair — had the team ready to go. “Despite being the smallest team in the 4A All-Girl Stunt Division, our athletes brought an impressive level of power and energy to the mat. They executed their routine with determination, and even after a fall, they kept their spirits high and finished strong. We couldn’t be prouder of how they represented our program, both in skill and in character.”

EHS cheer — the defending state 3A champs from a year ago — faced adversity this season ahead of State Spirit, with a bump up to 4A, and a smaller state roster making the trip to Casper.

“We knew the challenges were significant, especially moving up to 4A with just seven athletes,” Lebert said. “Our focus was on maximizing the strengths of our team—emphasizing clean execution, strong stunts and building their confidence. The girls showed incredible dedication during practices, pushing through tough routines and supporting one another. Their commitment and teamwork were key to overcoming the hurdles we faced.”

Resiliency was a key word for both EHS spirit teams headed into State Spirit, and Lebert said her team’s dedication to the work and each other was nothing short of inspiring.

“They approached every challenge head-on, refusing to let the size of their team or the pressure of competing in 4A define their performance,” she said. “Even when things didn’t go perfectly, like during the fall, they never lost their focus or energy. Their ability to finish the routine with pride and composure speaks volumes about their grit. They truly embodied what it means to persevere through adversity.”

Though the team doesn’t have a designated captain, Lebert said leadership naturally emerged within the team, often when it was needed the most.

“Different athletes stepped up in their own ways, whether it was motivating the group during tough practices, offering encouragement after a mistake, or setting the standard through their work ethic and focus,” she explained. “This shared leadership created a strong sense of unity, where everyone felt responsible for the team’s success. At State, it was inspiring to see how they supported one another, with each athlete contributing to the team’s energy, resilience and positive mindset both on and off the mat.”

Asked what the bus ride home was like for the team, Lebert said there were mixed emotions — pride, reflection and gratitude.

“While we didn’t come home with a repeat championship, there was a strong sense of accomplishment in what we had achieved,” she said. “Knowing we made an impact and earned the respect of other 4A teams, despite the challenges we faced, was incredibly rewarding. We also spent time talking about the support from our cheer community, which means so much to us. Their encouragement throughout the season reminded us that we’re part of something bigger than just the competition.”

As for what’s next for EHS cheer, Lebert said she’s super-duper excited (inside joke) about the open clinic on March 4 for current students in 8th to 11th grade that kicks off the recruiting process for the upcoming season.

“We’re eager to grow our program, welcome new talent and continue spreading school spirit throughout our community,” Lebert said.