A MJW varsity athlete steps onto the mat. She is breathing heavily, her heart is in her feet. She spirits to her spot and gets ready to perform. She smiles, looking at all the people who came to watch her that usually can not. She is ready to perform for everyone. 

On November 12th, MCHS hosted the MJWs showcase. 

The showcase is when all the MJW cheer teams and the MCHS cheerleading teams perform at Upper Campus for family and friends to watch. Attendance is higher as this is closer to home then their usual competitions. 

“MJW helped me learn how to be a cheerleader and made me who I am as a cheerleader today,” said Teagan Hemmeter, a JV sophomore athlete.

Both athletes and family members enjoy attending the showcase.

“My favorite thing about the showcase is that we get to support all of McHenry,” said Peyton Rebmen, a seventh grade varsity member.

Coaches also enjoy the showcase as they get to see the impact they have on their athletes.

“I want to be able to make a difference in kids’ lives…The amount of confidence that these girls gain is priceless and will definitely make them better people as they grow up,” said Jamie Riley, the varsity director.

Although it looks all glitz and glamor to spectators, there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes.

MJW president Tina Rebmen talks about how they have to book an M.C, vendors, selling tickets and raffles, and moving things from the cheers facility to the high school.

“It is stressful but I love it. It is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes to make it all come together…The whole town gets to come together and see it,” continued Rebmen.

The showcase is done every year to give family members a chance to see the girls perform. 

Competitions are often far away and expensive so more families can come watch the girls perform at the showcase as it is closer and cheaper.

“Athletes can invite their friends and family that would not necessarily go to the competitions that are far away,” stated Riley.

As it is an annual event, the showcase helps to fund the organization. 

“It is one of our bigger fundraisers for the year,” continued Riley.

MJW made about $4000 at this year’s showcase.

While it takes time and precision to set up, the showcase benefits both viewers and athletes. Vendors get to sell their items, family and friends get to watch the cheerleaders perform their routine, and the athletes get to show everyone what they can do.

“At the end of the day it’s for the girls, the athletes and it’s well worth it,” said Rebmen.