For the third year in a row the Dawson County High School competitive cheerleading squad has become region champions.

On Nov. 5, in front of a packed house at the DCHS gymnasium, the team turned in a deduction-free performance to win the Region 7-AAA championship and advance straight to the state finals this weekend.

"They have been dedicated and performing like a team," said Coach Kim Fleming. "Like I said before, this season has been like a roller coaster, so many ups and downs. This team are like fighters, they keep rising to the occasion."

Last week's win allowed the team to bypass state sectionals and go straight to the finals. The finals will consist of the top 16 teams in the state in Class AAA.

Last year the team finished 6th in the state-wide competition.

"We are hoping for a flawless performance on Saturday," Fleming said. "I think this team has experienced team members and they know what it takes to reach the top."

Fleming said they will not change their routine at all as they move ahead and feels like the team is mentally prepared.

They are, however, hoping that they will be able to take care of a few injuries this week.

"I believe this team has come together and they are peaking at the right time," Fleming said.

The team will compete on Nov. 12 at the Columbus Civic Center in Columbus.