The Fallbrook High School competition cheerleading team has just learned it has qualified for three upcoming elite competitions.

"It has been many years since our team has qualified for USA and it will be our biggest challenge yet, however the team is very excited and looking forward to showing off their skills and competing with the best schools in the nation," said Allison Abbott, competition coach and choreographer.

The series of events begin Feb. 9 in Las Vegas with the JAMZ National Championship, continues Feb. 24 at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park with the Sharp International State Championship, and culminates March 14 through 17 at the USA National Championship at Disneyland in Anaheim. The event in Anaheim will be the team’s final competition of the year.

The competition cheerleading team is comprised of freshman, junior Advertisement

[ Berry-Bell and Hall Mortuary ] varsity and varsity cheerleaders.

"We have one competition team that represents Fallbrook High School," explained Abbott.

Students involved in cheerleading balance many activities.

"The girls cheer for all the sports programs, participate in numerous community service events, and participate on the competition team while maintaining their grade point average," said Abbott.

Abbott, who has been coaching cheer for over 14 years, said this group is hard-working and supportive of each other.

"This group has a lot of talent and is very dedicated to each other," she said. "They do what they can to ensure each member achieves her goal. They really are a pleasure to work with. I just love them and enjoy their enthusiasm."

In addition to Abbott, cheer coaches include Michelle Engberg at the varsity level and Ashlynn Wright for junior varsity.