The Dawson County competition cheerleading team traveled Saturday, Sept. 22 to participate in the 2018 Lambert Longhorn Cheer Classic hosted by Lambert High School.

The team faced some of the toughest competition they have seen thus far as the competition featured regional rival North Hall, and the AAA team from Morgan County that finished fourth at state in 2017.

The Dawson County Tigers posted an almost perfect routine, to include all elements of their pyramid formations, to take first place in the event.

The win gives them three first place finishes in three events.

“Their overall performance scores also continue to get better each week with the scores only being a couple points away from a perfect score,” said Head Coach Kim Fleming. “They are a very talented and coachable team.”

The victory had a deeper meaning than usual for the team as they had to replace senior Hanna Davenport only a few days before the competition due to a shoulder injury she suffered in practice. Davenport’s timeline to return to the team is unknown.

“These girls really stepped up this week when their teammate went down to an injury. I am really proud of the way they responded,” Fleming said.

As the results were posted and the excitement of the win took hold of the team it was clear to see Davenport was proud of her team as well.

“This was the best performance that the girls have done this season so far,” Davenport said. “I’m so proud of them for constantly overcoming obstacles during the week and putting out great routines every Saturday.”

The team has some time off to return to health and continue to improve as their next event is not scheduled until Oct. 6 when they will travel to Johns Creek to participate in the Johns Creek Invitational.