North Carolina High School Athletic Association
#BetterTogetherSince1913

2024 Cheerleading Invitational

RALEIGH – The North Carolina High School Athletic Association hosted its 22nd annual Cheerleading Invitational at the Raleigh Civic Center on December 7, 2024. All Day Cheerleading, a Shelby, N.C.-based small business, produced the event.

Carolina Cup

For the first time in school history, the South Rowan Raiders won the Carolina Cup at the NCHSAA Cheerleading Invitational, ending a two-year streak for the Cardinal Gibbons Crusaders. The Carolina Cup is awarded to the top varsity team regardless of division. At last year’s Invitational, the Raiders won the Performance Cheer Varsity Small Non-Tumbling D1 division.

Tar Heel Trophy

West Henderson won the Tar Heel Trophy for the first time in program history, ending a two-year streak for the Weddington Warriors. The Tar Heel Trophy goes to the best-performing team in the Game Day Division. The Game Day Division was introduced in 2021 when West Forsyth won the first Tar Heel Trophy. At last year’s competition, the Falcons JV Squad won the Game Day Junior Varsity Non-Tumbling D1 division, and the Varsity finished eighth in the Performance Cheer Varsity Small Coed D1 division.

NCHSAA/Cheersounds Scholarship Winners

The NCHSAA and its partner, Cheersounds, are proud to recognize and reward outstanding cheerleaders exemplifying sound character and academic standing, good sportsmanship, and school spirit by providing financial assistance in furthering his or her college or university education. The NCHSAA, with the help of Cheersounds, awards eight $500.00 scholarships annually.

Recipients are selected from qualified applicants who submitted essays and recommendation letters from their coach and other school personnel. 

Reese Buff from Alexander Central


Alexander Central High School senior Reese Buff is an unstoppable force of enthusiasm, dedication, and leadership. From organizing care packages for nursing homes to delivering meals and Christmas gifts, her efforts have brought joy to countless individuals. Buff’s leadership extends to coordinating events like career labs and a 5K race, demonstrating her ability to inspire and uplift others. Buff’s passion for helping those in need and her creative problem-solving make her a shining example of kindness and determination.

Lilly Cornett from Alexander Central


Lily Cornett is a dedicated and compassionate cheerleader from Alexander Central High School whose commitment to her community shines as brightly as her school spirit. Over the years, she has coached young athletes, organized cheer camps to empower future teammates, and led hurricane relief efforts by mobilizing her team to bring hope to those in need. Her ability to balance academics, leadership roles, and countless service projects highlights her extraordinary work ethic and heart for others. Whether mentoring younger students or representing her school at competitions, Cornett exemplifies the true meaning of teamwork and perseverance. She inspires everyone around her to rise to their best potential.

Jillian Szemereta from Apex Friendship


With her boundless energy and passion for service, Jillian Szemereta from Apex Friendship High School embodies what it means to make a difference. From leading cheer routines for aspiring athletes to building homes with Habitat for Humanity, she approaches every opportunity with a commitment to uplift and inspire others. Her leadership extends beyond the mat as she fosters teamwork at Chick-fil-A, empowers her peers in FFA, and mentors younger students in her church community. Szemereta is a shining example of resilience, kindness, and the spirit of cheerleading, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encounters.

Erin Clemmer from Bear Grass Charter


Erin Clemmer, a senior at Bear Grass Charter School, exemplifies leadership, kindness, and dedication in every aspect of her life. Her passion for community service shines through her extensive volunteer work, from assisting with local festivals to traveling for mission trips that improve lives through hard work and compassion. As a cheerleader, Clemmer’s positivity and team spirit inspire those around her, whether she’s leading by example as a senior captain or rallying her school to show pride and unity. Balancing academics, athletics, and service with a remarkable GPA, she demonstrates what it means to excel with integrity and determination. Her drive to make a difference is a testament to her extraordinary character and commitment to uplifting her community.

Avery Beam from Cherryville


Avery Beam, a senior at Cherryville High School, embodies the heart of her community through her tireless service and passion for helping others. From mentoring young cheerleaders with the Spirit of Cherryville Recreational Cheerleading Team to inspiring joy through Operation Christmas Child and Special Olympics, she has made an indelible impact. Avery’s resilience shines as brightly as her leadership, overcoming reconstructive hip surgery with unmatched determination to return stronger than ever to her sport. A true role model, she uplifts her peers and fosters school spirit with creativity and perseverance. Beyond the mat, Beam’s commitment to academics and her dream of becoming a nurse reflect her deep compassion and drive to make a difference.

Sadie Link from Davie County


Sadie Link is a dedicated and passionate student from Davie County High School. With a stellar academic record and an impressive 4.62 GPA, Sadie balances rigorous coursework with an extraordinary commitment to her community and cheerleading team. As a leader on and off the field, she has organized grant cycles, planned impactful events like the Hope Prom, and consistently volunteered to uplift her peers and community. Her role as a cheer captain showcases her ability to inspire others, promote sportsmanship, and foster school spirit. Link exemplifies what it means to lead with heart, determination, and enthusiasm.

Brianna Quiroz from Franklin 


Brianna Quiroz from Franklin High School exemplifies the spirit of leadership and service both on and off the mat. Through her tireless dedication to her community, she has contributed to initiatives like Habitat for Humanity, school cleanups, and supporting local organizations such as the Franklin Fire Department and Reach of Macon County. Her creative approach to promoting school spirit, from themed events to acts of encouragement, reflects her commitment to uniting others. Cheerleading has not only been her passion but also a platform for inspiring inclusivity and teamwork. With unmatched resilience and a drive to uplift others, Quiroz shines as a true beacon of positivity and excellence.

Genesis Argote from South Davidson


Genesis Argote is a remarkable individual whose dedication to community service and leadership is quite impressive. As the captain of her cheer squad at South Davidson High School, she fosters a supportive and organized environment, ensuring her team is always prepared and inspired. Her commitment to giving back is exemplified through initiatives like “The Genesis Effect,” which supports children affected by parental substance abuse, and her tireless efforts in collecting thousands of food and clothing items for those in need. A natural leader with a compassionate heart, Argote demonstrates how spirit and service go hand in hand.