OilerNation-
Yesterday, our EAWR cheerleaders stepped onto the biggest stage in Illinois competing at the IHSA State Finals. In a single performance measured in minutes, they represented many months of preparation, discipline, sacrifice, and belief.
Cheerleading is often misunderstood. Too frequently, it is viewed as secondary or symbolic—an accessory to “real” sports. But anyone who has watched a competitive cheer routine up close knows the truth. This is one of the most physically demanding and technically precise athletic activities we offer. It requires explosive strength, balance, timing, flexibility, endurance, and trust—sometimes all at once, and always under pressure.
Every stunt, toss, and transition carries real risk. There are no pads. No helmets. No margin for hesitation. What these athletes do requires toughness of body and mind, refined through countless hours of repetition and conditioning.
At state, our girls finished 16th overall in the entire state of Illinois in Class 1A, competing against some of the strongest cheer programs Illinois has to offer.
While they did not advance to the final round of the “top 10,” this result should not be viewed as anything less than a major success. Being 16th in the state means you are among the very best, period.
And more importantly, this moment is bigger than a ranking.
This state appearance sets a standard. It sends a message to younger athletes across our feeder districts that competitive cheerleading at EAWR is real, elite, and attainable. Somewhere in the stands yesterday or watching online were future Oilers who saw what is possible with commitment and courage.
That vision does not happen by accident.
Coach Allison Beachum is a true “coach’s coach.” She runs a program defined by high expectations, accountability, and excellence. Her athletes are prepared, not just to perform routines, but to handle pressure, setbacks, and the responsibility of representing something larger than themselves. Programs like this elevate an entire athletic department.
These athletes are fierce, powerful, and dynamic. They are living examples of why female athletics matter—and why investing in girls’ programs strengthens a district as a whole. When we talk about Oiler Athletics, success cannot be measured solely by traditionally male-dominated sports or by win-loss columns alone. Success is about opportunity, visibility, growth, and pride.
This cheerleading season did all of that.
It strengthened our community.
It elevated our athletic identity.
It inspired the next generation.
And it reminded us that excellence often shows up long before the podium and long after the scores are posted.
We are proud of these athletes, proud of their coaches, and proud of what they represent for EAWR. This was a state moment worth celebrating.
With Oiler Pride,
Mr. Miller, Superintendent