The Varsity Game Day Cheer Team, the 2023 Section IX Class B champions, finished in eighth place at the first-ever NYSPHSAA Game Day Cheerleading Championships at Visions Center in Binghamton on  Nov. 5.

“I’m beyond proud of these ladies who hit a solid, amazing routine at States,” said Coach Patti Archiere. “We had an undefeated season in Section IX and earned the title of Section IX Class B Cheer Champs, wrapping the season up with eighth in the state at the first NYSPHAA Game Day Cheer Championship.”

The NYSPHSAA Board approved game day cheer to become a State Championship beginning this year, which now recognizes the top athletes and teams in this sport.

“For Minisink Valley to be part of this historical, first-ever championship tournament is a testament to this team’s hard work, perseverance and dedication to their sport,” said Athletic Director Tim Bult. “Our team performed exceptionally well and represented Minisink Valley with precision and class. We are so very proud of our team for an amazing season. I was so proud to be in the audience and watch this elite team perform an amazing routine at the New York State championship level.”

Superintendent Brian Monahan, who also attended this first-ever event,  added: “There are very few teams in New York State who can say they were part of an inaugural state championship tournament.  Our game day cheer team was part of a talented and elite group of athletes who reached this level of competition.  We applaud NYPHSAA for establishing a state championship event recognizing the top athletes and teams in this sport.”