Whitehall High School’s cheerleaders took third place in the small division at the 2015-2016 PIAA District XI Competitive Spirit Cheerleading Championships on Jan. 9 at Easton Area Middle School.

“We just wanted to get to states,” said senior, Taylor Beer. “Even though we had one fall, we did the best we could have done.”

The Zephyrs, in fact, did qualify for states, which will take place Jan. 23 in Hershey.

“There are a lot of emotions. It was a rough season with injuries and changes,” said senior, Ashley Botak.

The Zephyrs were one of the last squads to perform, having plenty of time to kill and plenty of nerves to deal with.

“We got air, cooled down, went to the bathroom a few times,” laughed Ashley Stutz, also a senior.

Now, the Zephyrs can look forward to the state competition.

Senior, Rebecca Rivas, said, “It’s my first time going. [I’m looking forward to] the experience of it in a big arena.”

Liberty, who placed first, Bethlehem Catholic, Parkland, and Wilson will also make the trip to Hershey.

Senior, Alyssa Holland, said, “I’m relieved.”