Cheerleaders win championship

By NYRIE KARKAZIAN

Fresno State cheerleaders really had something to be cheerful about this month when they came home as national champions.

The team traveled to Las Vegas, where they competed in the semifinals at the Cashman Convention Center on Feb. 6. They attended the United Spirit Association camp during the summer, where they received a bid to nationals.

“It was really surprising because we hadn’t competed at all this year until nationals, so we didn't know what we were up against,” cheerleader Sharmela Yamakawa said.

The next day they moved on to the finals, where they were up against Mesa State College and the University of Nevada-Las Vegas for the championship.

“We were all nervous and excited, I can’t even explain,” cheerleader Ashley Melikian said.

The last time the Fresno State cheerleading team competed in the USA finals was in 1999, and this is the first time Fresno State has ever won first place.

“It felt good to know we brought the national championship back with us to Fresno State,” Melikian said.

Coach Stacey Vasilovich was not available for comment, but her husband and assistant, Adam, said they were proud of the team.

Vasilovich said he believed the team won because of the creativity of their steps and choreography.

The cheer team was recognized Feb. 16 at both the men’s and women’s basketball games after their performance at halftime.

"We went crazy," said Melikian about their championship win. "It felt great to know all of our hard work paid off.”