Imagine going through six overtimes at a state championship and putting in all your effort, only to lose. This was the situation for Rocklin STUNT when they lost by a nail-biter to Oak Ridge at the 2016 Stunt State Championships.

After an upsetting defeat, Rocklin STUNT members are hungry for redemption. The ladies in blue and silver are devoting long hours of work, giving it their all and refusing to quit until they achieve their goals.

Junior and senior veterans are feeling an urgency to win and what to experience what they felt two years ago at the 2015 STUNT State Championships when they were victorious.

“We are working on every level and making sure it is as perfect as possible. We are focusing on ourselves and knowing that the only thing that matters is how we perform, not the other team. The only thing we can control is ourselves. We motivate each other everyday to be the best we can. I just remember the feeling of hard games and then how I felt after losing state last year, and that motivates me to be even better this year and fight to take the title back,” junior Whitney Laurin explained.

Senior Jenna Wergedal, one of the team captains, ensures everyone prepares for the events leading up to state championships.

Jenna responded, “As a team, we are working together as if we were each a piece of the puzzle to hit every routine perfectly. We cheer each other on from the sidelines and we are always encouraging. Personally, I am always working to improve my skills and encouraging others to do the same.”

Additionally, sophomore Aleah Schostal wants to experience a state win for herself.

“After losing in overtime last year, I’ve been mentally preparing myself more than physically. In the beginning of the season I doubted if we would become a team and family in the beginning but in only five practices and four games I know our team is strong and together. We constantly improve and motivate each other and focus on one game at a time to better ourselves. State is definitely within our reach and I’m really excited to become closer to everyone while also getting better, ” Aleah commented.

Coach Ashley Berry has assisted the Stunt program ever since it started. She plans on making the season as best as possible and to push her team into great success.

“My plan is to come back stronger and more focused. We have two-thirds of our team returning from last year so we all have the same mindset and drive to reclaim that title. The past is the past so the only way to move on and improve is to look forward and focus on one game at a time,” said Coach Berry.

Members of Stunt are ship-shaped and ready for this new season. They hope to accomplish their goals by having a strong mindset. They will put in all their efforts and whatever it takes just to achieve their state tile back.