Photos: Fairfax High School Cheerleading Preview

With 16 seniors and a strong tradition of cheerleading excellence, the Rebels look forward to competing once again for a Virginia state cheer title.

Rebel Coach Wes Vaughan says, “Our goals for the year are to have fun, grow and bond as a team as well as be consistent with all of our skills.” This philosophy has added up to a slew of district, regional and state titles over the years the program has had Vaughan at its helm. Last year, the squad won the Liberty District title, was the Regional runner-up, and placed fifth at the state level.

The Rebels varsity cheer coach since 2005, Vaughan has led the team to states the last three years, including its first state championship in 2009. In addition, he is currently the president of NVRCCA, the governing body of scholastic cheerleading in Northern Virginia.

With a squad loaded with talent, the Rebels attended the James Speed Camp in Springfield after tryouts earlier this month. From stunting to jumps, tumbling to technique, Vaughan keeps a sharp eye on his squad, looking for areas needing improvement at the Rebels’ near daily practices.

In addition to cheering at football games the next two months, FHS cheerleaders will be preparing and perfecting their routine to defend their Liberty District title. Vaughan says, “I’m excited to see what the kids bring to the floor this year.”