Bethlehem Catholic High School’s cheerleaders won a bid to Nationals after competing at a UCA qualifier on Nov. 14 in Toms River, N.J.

“We were waiting and waiting because they didn’t call out the names in any particular order, and we were holding hands,” said Becahi captain, Kassi Yocco. “We stood up and started screaming.”

The squad of 14, coached by Colleen Iannetta and Carly Ringenary, competed in the small division.

“It’s one of the hardest divisions because a lot of big schools take their best cheerleaders and put them into the small division. It’s more competitive and more challenging than game day division, but more rewarding,” Yocco said.

The Hawks’ routine began with a tumbling pass to music and ended with a pyramid.

“It was a really solid routine. We were all really excited. It was our first competition, so we wanted to do our best,” said Yocco.

The Hawks were one of the last teams to compete in their division.

“The judges were looking for a clean, solid routine where everything will hit and see where to add on to make it more difficult for nationals to max out points. We were confident because we practiced hard for it,” Yocco said.

Coach Iannetta told her squad she was proud of them and looking forward to even better things ahead.

Nationals are scheduled for February in Orlando, Fl.