The Hemlock Varsity Pompon team capped off a remarkable season by earning the Mid American Pompon Class C/D State Championship title. The championship marks the culmination of a season defined by unity, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence.
While “Pull the Sled” is Hemlock’s school motto, it became something the team repeated to one another from the very start and even printed on team merchandise. The phrase reflected how the athletes worked together all season, supporting one another and sharing responsibility in order to reach their ultimate goal of a state championship.
The road to that title was not without challenges. As competition season intensified, practices became more demanding and pushed the athletes both physically and mentally. The team remained dedicated and motivated throughout those difficult stretches, even when the work became harder.
The team’s biggest successes came during the state competition season. Hemlock earned first place in the Class C/D division at the Michigan Pom Association Competition before capturing the Mid American Pompon Class C/D State Championship title. Those championships reflected the hard work and dedication the athletes poured into their routine.
This year’s state championship routine featured hard hitting, high energy songs that represented the fight and power within the athletes. Multiple sections of choreography showcased their talent, high skill level, and drive to achieve excellence.
One of the defining characteristics of this group was its shared leadership. There were no designated leaders. Instead, different athletes stepped up each day, offering pep talks, answering questions, and encouraging teammates. That daily accountability strengthened the team’s bond and created a culture built on trust and encouragement.
The season began with strong momentum at summer camp, where the team earned Grand Champions with first place finishes in Kickline, Speed Learning, and Original Routine, along with Peppy Pom and Most Congenial Team honors. For the first time in program history, the team also received the “Knock Your Socks Off” award, selected by another team for both performance quality and the uplifting atmosphere Hemlock created at camp.
Throughout the competitive season, Hemlock continued to build confidence and consistency. At the Mid American Pompon High Kick Competition, the team placed ninth in the Large Varsity Division. They followed that performance with a first place finish at the Michigan Pom Association Competition before closing the year as Mid American Pompon Class C/D State Champions.
Individual recognition also highlighted the strength of the program. Six athletes were selected to the Mid American Pompon All Star Team: seniors Madison Weber and Aubrey Wieber; juniors Grace Murtha and Jyllian Corwin; sophomore Aliyah Wasney; and freshman Kassidy Cavendish. Through this honor, they have had the opportunity to perform in the Thanksgiving Day Parade, at Cedar Point, and at Walt Disney World, and two of the aforementioned will travel to Ireland and England this summer.
The program proudly recognizes its four seniors: Aubrey Wieber, Madison Weber, Emily Davis, and Lissa Stephan. As a Hemlock Pom alum, Galonska has watched these athletes grow from sixth grade through their senior season. “These girls have given their all to this sport and this program, and for that I am forever grateful and proud,” she said.
Beyond results, the growth of the team was evident throughout the year. The athletes improved not only in skill level but also as teammates. Their chemistry was visible in practice, before performances, and on the court, and their bond could be felt during each routine.
The group’s dedication and openness to trying something different also stood out. This season included a vision to do something new at the varsity level, and the athletes embraced that challenge without hesitation. Stepping outside of comfort zones allowed the team to grow together and ultimately achieve at the highest level.
When asked to best recap the season, the answer returns to the phrase that carried the team from start to finish. “The dedication and drive from these girls is something unlike anything I’ve ever seen before, and they truly embody this motto,” Galonska said.
Special appreciation is extended to assistant coaches Alyssa Rivette and Alaina Rundell, as well as the parents whose support throughout the season played an important role in the team’s success.
With a state championship secured and a culture built on unity, dedication, and shared leadership, Hemlock Pompon has established a strong foundation for the future.
Way to #PullTheSled!