Excelsior Springs can lay claim to having one of the state’s top-tier high school cheerleading squads. On Dec. 9, 2023, the school’s cheerleading team competed in state competition at Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, taking fifth in Class 3A. The Tigers, who were allowed to have 10 members of their squad compete, were judged on performing a short routine that was required to showcase athleticism, crowd involvement, jumping, music, sportsmanship, stunting and tumbling. “I am very proud of this team and how they competed at the state competition,” coach Meranda Lefebvre said. The team faced a few significant challenges in the weeks leading up to the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association competition, including injuries and illnesses, according to Lefebvre. “Despite the challenges we were facing, the girls kept a positive attitude and did everything they could to help each other so we could still have a strong routine,” she said. The Excelsior Springs…