In preparation for their upcoming sectionals at Civic Memorial High School, the Jacksonville J’ettes have been squeezing in practices every chance they have. Sectionals were held on February 7 this year. This proved to be a very important competition for the J’ettes. After competing against Civic Memorial in two previous competitions, it was anyone’s call as to who would take home 1st place at sectionals.
During their first competition at Mahomet Seymour, the J’ettes received second place in the Open Kick division to Civic Memorial. They were only 0.4 points away from beating them. However, the tables turned at Belleville when the J’ettes took home first place and defeated Civic by 0.4 points.
At Sectionals, the J’ettes performed in the Open Pom and Kick categories once again. In the Open Pom category, the J’ettes competed against three other teams: Collinsville, Masscoutah, and Triad. They received first place once again and scored high enough to qualify for state on February 14. In the Open Kick division, the J’ettes faced Civic Memorial, Jersey, and Fieldcrest. Yet again, the J’ettes were successful and obtained another first place.
With scores in the high 80’s, the Jacksonville J’ettes were able to advance to state in both routines. To celebrate their qualification, the J’ettes have been dressing up each day of the week before state. This is an annual tradition for the Jacksonville J’ettes known as “State Week.” On Monday, the J’ettes wore their “Our Favorite Son” accessories to school. These accessories include a hat, sparkly suspenders, and sparkly tie. On the second day of State Week, each squad planned a different outfit. For example, one squad wore groufits (grey on grey) while another dressed as ballerinas. On Wednesday, each class wore a previously designed t-shirt, and on Thursday, all the J’ettes wore their new spirit jerseys.
The J’ettes will be leaving Friday morning on their way to state in Dekalb and competing the following day on Saturday, February 14.