KEARNEY, Neb. - The Kearney High Cheerleading team made history on Saturday by securing a runner-up finish in the Class A Traditional Routine at the Nebraska State Cheer & Dance Championships.

The Bearcats earned their first-ever state trophy and the program's first top-three finish in any event since 2009 while competing against 11 other teams. The Traditional Routine event combines cheer, dance, stunting, and tumbling.

The team trained three times a week at 5:45 a.m. throughout the competition season in order to achieve the accomplishment. 

Coach Ashley Bush said the team is comprised of "not only talented cheerleaders, but also some of the kindest students at Kearney High. Their dedication and hard work have transformed Kearney High Cheerleading for the better.”