N※N

IHSA Cheerleading State Finals Kick Off in Bloomington

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. eading-state-finals-kick-off-in-bloomington.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 2:22 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Illinois, UNITED STATES

Bloomington, IL - February 6, 2026 - The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Cheerleading State Finals kick off today, promising a thrilling weekend of athleticism, teamwork, and school spirit. Taking place at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington, the competition will showcase the dedication and talent of cheerleaders from across the state, culminating in championship performances on Saturday.

Today, Friday, February 6th, the preliminary rounds will determine which teams advance to the finals. The schedule is packed with high-energy routines, beginning with the 1A division at 10:00 AM, followed by 2A at 1:00 PM, 3A at 4:00 PM, and concluding with the Coed division at 7:00 PM. Spectators and fans can anticipate increasingly complex and innovative routines as the day progresses, with teams vying for a coveted spot in tomorrow's final performances.

Saturday's Showdown: Finals Begin at 10 AM

The intensity will ramp up on Saturday, February 7th, as teams compete for state titles. The finals begin at 10:00 AM with the 1A division, followed by 2A at 1:00 PM, 3A at 4:00 PM, and the highly anticipated Coed Finals at 7:00 PM. Expect nail-biting finishes and stunning displays of skill as these athletes push the boundaries of cheerleading.

How to Watch: Multiple Options for Fans

For those unable to attend in person, there are several ways to follow all the action. The IHSA has partnered with the NFHS Network to provide live streaming coverage of the entire competition. However, access requires a subscription to the NFHS Network platform. This partnership allows fans across the state and beyond to support their favorite teams and experience the excitement remotely.

Local television stations are also stepping up to bring the championships to a wider audience. WGN-TV in Chicago, along with WAND-TV and WEEK-TV/WMBD-TV in Peoria and Champaign, will be broadcasting portions of the finals on Saturday. WGN-TV and the central Illinois stations will air coverage at both 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM, providing highlights and full routine showcases. Check your local listings for specific channel information.

The Evolution of IHSA Cheerleading

The IHSA Cheerleading program has experienced significant growth in recent years. Participation numbers are steadily increasing, demonstrating a growing interest in the sport at the high school level. This growth isn't just in quantity, but also in quality. Coaches are implementing more advanced choreography, incorporating complex stunts, and emphasizing athletic conditioning. What was once primarily a sideline activity focused on supporting other sports has evolved into a highly competitive athletic discipline in its own right.

"We've seen a real professionalization of high school cheerleading," explains Sarah Miller, an IHSA spokesperson. "The skills these athletes possess are incredible, and the level of competition is higher than ever before. It's a testament to the dedication of the coaches, the athletes, and the support from the schools and communities."

Beyond the Pom-Poms: The Skills on Display

While often associated with enthusiasm and school spirit, cheerleading demands a remarkable degree of athleticism. Cheerleaders need strength, flexibility, coordination, and endurance. Stunts require precise timing and trust between team members, while tumbling routines demand exceptional gymnastic ability. The routines also emphasize dance and choreography, showcasing the artistic side of the sport. Judging criteria include skill execution, synchronization, choreography, and overall impression.

The increasing demands of the sport are leading to greater emphasis on safety and proper training. Coaches are prioritizing injury prevention techniques and ensuring that athletes are adequately conditioned to perform challenging routines. The IHSA also provides guidelines and resources to promote safe practices.

As the 2026 IHSA Cheerleading State Finals get underway, all eyes are on these talented athletes. This weekend promises a display of athleticism, dedication, and unwavering school spirit - a true celebration of the power of cheerleading in Illinois high schools.