HOOVER- Both Bob Jones and Liberty Middle School placed second in their respective divisions at the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Southern Regional competition. The Patriots took runner-up honors to first place Vestavia Hills in the Super Varsity while the Lions were second to Ruckel Middle School of Niceville, Fla. in the Small Junior High division.

“The girls were extremely excited that they placed so high (second) in the Cheer Routine competition,” said Danielle Dykes head coach of Liberty cheer. “The routine included many stunts, tumbling, a cheer and a dance routine.”

“These athletes have come together through a year of having many issues and are now a great squad,” said Michelle Cleveland head coach of Bob Jones. “Placing second behind Vestavia Hills was a huge accomplishment. I’m so proud of all of them.”

The 24-member squad from Bob Jones is made up of mostly freshmen and sophomores with just one senior among the roster.

Liberty also picked up a top five spot in the Junior High Game Day competition, which is mainly performed at halftime of events and includes stunts. Nearby Monrovia Middle School was fourth in the competition.

“With our placement at Regionals we automatically received a bid to Orlando for the Nationals and we’ll begin our quest to make a good showing at Nationals within days,” said Cleveland. “We really have a great group.”

“These girls have worked extremely hard for months and now look forward to preparing for the Nationals,” said Dykes.

Bob Jones and Liberty, along with James Clemens, Discovery, Monrovia and Sparkman will make their trek to Orlando, Fla. for the UCA Nationals scheduled for Feb. 10-11. All of the squads will take some time off for the holidays before resuming daily practice sessions in preparation for the Nationals.