The Oak Harbor Wildcat competition cheer squad earned third at the Sequoia Invitational at Kentwood High School Saturday, Jan. 8.

For the first time in quite a few years, according to coach Robin Gohn, the competition included eight other schools represented in the small all-girl advanced category, including Bellevue, Tahoma and Peninsula high schools. This gave Oak Harbor a chance to size up the competitors who will be participating in the state cheer championship Jan. 20 at the Comcast Event Center in Everett.

Gohn said the scores from Kentwood are being reviewed and Oak Harbor may jump up to second place.

Junior squad member Beckie White said, “There were a lot of strong routines put on the mat by the other schools today, but the Wildcats know a clean, sharp routine will make the difference in winning the state title.”

Chylah Bass said, “Every practice we try something new and work on perfecting our skills to continue to grow as a team. We have another competition next Saturday and feel we are getting better and stronger every time we compete.”

Oak Harbor travels to Gig Harbor Saturday, Jan. 15, for its last competition before the state finals.