Oak Harbor Wildcat cheerleaders finished their season placing third in the nation in the American School Spirit Awards.

Given by Universal Cheerleading Association based out of Memphis, Tenn., the citation states, “This award signifies that Oak Harbor High School Cheer Program exemplifies outstanding school athletic support, community involvement and leadership. Our judges were impressed by all of your materials, spirit-raising activities and community involvement along with the letters of recommendations. Your squad successfully goes above and beyond and we take great pride in awarding you this honor.”

The award is based on a pictorial portfolio of activities in the school and community and letters of recommendation from the principal, athletic director, superintendent and a community leader.

The Wildcat cheerleaders this year participated in the Susan G. Kormen Race for the Cure in Seattle, Challenge Series for Kids with Special Needs and Help House food drives.

They also assisted at the Teddy Bear Breakfast, Downtown Merchants’Halloween Night Safe Treats No Trick, Seahawks’ halftime and Oak Harbor Educational Foundation Breakfast Fundraiser.

The team greeted the buses on the first day of school at both campuses, spotlighted school activities with personalized three-foot-tall poster people, chose a fan of the week at the football games, gave out spirit items at football and basketball games and at wrestling matches. In addition, team members made door signs for the teachers, gave treats to the teams and cheered at volleyball, football and basketball games along with wrestling matches and swim meets.

School Superintendent Dr. Rick Schulte wrote in his letter of recommendation, “Our school board, our Chamber of Commerce and local businesses, our city government, and many youth sports organizations have commended the Oak Harbor High School Cheer Squad for their public spirit, their contributions and their skilled routines. Both individually and collectively, the Oak Harbor High School Cheer Squad serves as positive role models to their peers at Oak Harbor High School but more significantly to the youth of all ages in Oak Harbor.”

Jill Johnson, Executive Director of the Greater Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce wrote, “The Oak Harbor High School Cheer Squad is the pride of our community, not just because they win state and national titles, but because of who they are as individuals and how they enhance our community. As Director of the Chamber of Commerce I serve on several local boards, and I am amazed at how often the cheer squad is referenced as a source for volunteer support. They are willing partners and our town is better for it.”