By Thomas Grant Jr.

Lake Murray teams have dominated Class 5A competitive cheer since its inception.

Schools like Lexington, Chapin and Dutch Fork have hoisted the state championship trophy in that classification two or more times since 2016.

This past Saturday, Chapin placed first at the Class 5A qualifier held at Irmo High School. It was followed by River Bluff, defending Class 5A champion Lexington, St. James, and Dutch Fork.

As this year’s competition takes place Saturday at Colonial Life Arena, Northeast schools seek to break that Midlands stranglehold.

Blythewood Cheer – Photo by Blythewood High School

Blythewood finished tied for sixth at the Class 5A qualifier held at Irmo High School. Spring Valley finished 14th to make the 16-team field for this Saturday.

Ridge View placed ninth to qualify for the Class 4A final. It will compete against the likes of defending champion Easley, former two-time champion A.C. Flora and Airport.

Cardinal Newman Cheer – Photo by Cardinal Newman

In SCISA, the Cardinal Newman cheer team placed second overall in Gameday Cheer for Classes 3A/4A at the SCISA cheer final held Saturday at Irmo High School.

Pinewood Prep placed first in the event.

Feature Photo of Spring Valley Cheer by GoFlashWin.com.