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Oregon Cheerleading Dominance: Lebanon & Santiam Christian Win State Titles

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, March 16th 2026 at 23:56 GMT by KEZI
      Locales: Oregon, UNITED STATES

Lebanon, Oregon - March 17th, 2026 - The small towns of Lebanon and Stayton, Oregon, are buzzing with excitement following a remarkable weekend for local high school cheerleading. Both the Santiam Christian Eagles and the Lebanon Warriors secured state championships - Santiam Christian claiming the 4A title and Lebanon triumphing in the 6A division. This dual victory isn't just a local feel-good story; it's indicative of a wider surge in the popularity and competitive intensity of high school cheerleading across the state and nationally.

While traditionally viewed as a support role for other sports, cheerleading has been steadily evolving into a demanding athletic discipline, requiring incredible strength, flexibility, coordination, and teamwork. The performances that secured these titles for Santiam Christian and Lebanon were no exception. Witnesses at the competitions described routines filled with complex stunts, perfectly synchronized tumbling passes, and high-energy choreography, showcasing years of dedication from the athletes.

"It's so exciting to see all their hard work pay off," said Santiam Christian Coach Kayla Kyser, visibly emotional after her team's win. Kyser, now in her fifth season leading the Eagles, has focused on building a program that emphasizes both technical skill and character development. "These girls aren't just learning to cheer; they're learning discipline, resilience, and how to support each other. That's what makes this so much more than just a competition win."

Lebanon coach, Sarah Kifer, shares this perspective. "These girls have dedicated a lot of time and effort, and their win really shows it," Kifer stated. The Lebanon program, steeped in tradition as it enters its 48th season, has seen a resurgence in recent years under Kifer's leadership. Kifer attributes the team's success to a renewed focus on year-round training and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in high school cheerleading.

The disparity in program age is noteworthy. Santiam Christian's relatively young cheerleading program, established in 2012, has quickly become a force to be reckoned with, demonstrating that a focused, modern approach can yield rapid results. Lebanon's long-standing tradition provides a foundation of experience and community support, while adapting to the evolving demands of the sport.

This success is particularly significant when viewed against the backdrop of recent investment in cheerleading infrastructure across Oregon. The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) increased funding for cheerleading programs last year, providing access to better training facilities, qualified coaching staff, and expanded competition opportunities. This investment reflects a growing recognition of cheerleading's value as a legitimate sport, deserving of the same resources as football, basketball, and track.

Experts predict that Oregon will continue to be a hotbed for competitive cheerleading. Several factors contribute to this forecast. The state's strong emphasis on youth sports participation, coupled with the rising popularity of all-star cheerleading gyms, is creating a pipeline of talented athletes. Furthermore, the increasing exposure of cheerleading on social media platforms is attracting a new generation of students to the sport. The athleticism and artistry of modern cheerleading routines are captivating audiences online, inspiring more students to try out for their school teams.

Beyond the athletic benefits, cheerleading fosters valuable life skills like leadership, teamwork, and time management. The demanding training schedules require athletes to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments, preparing them for success both on and off the field.

The victories of Santiam Christian and Lebanon aren't just about bringing home trophies. They represent a broader cultural shift, a recognition of the dedication, skill, and athleticism of these young women. And as cheerleading continues to evolve, it's clear that these two schools are leading the charge towards a bright future for the sport in Oregon and beyond.