The Fruitport competitive cheer team is always very good, and it looks like 2025-26 will be no exception.

The Trojans kicked off the new season on Saturday by taking first place at the Grand Rapids West Catholic Invitational.

Fruitport beat out the second-place team in a tight race, totaling 679.74 points, followed by West Catholic (671.12) and Comstock Park (662.66).

The Trojans took first place in each of the three rounds– execution, overall skills and stunts.

They seemed to be in midseason form, despite the need for last-minute adjustments, which pleased head coach Saqora Conklin.

“This team has adapted to so much change in these last three weeks,” Conklin said. “They have put in so much work to get the rounds they threw today, and fought every second on the mat. Super proud of them!

“This is a super driven and adaptable team! I can’t wait to see what they do this season!”

The coach gave a special shout-out to senior Ellie Vancura, who was added to the Round 3 stunt team just a few days earlier and adjusted very well.

“She executed very well and hit every stunt with her group,” Conklin said. “I am so proud of her resilience and willingness for this team.”

Conklin also recognized senior Adalyn Bedford for making a similar last-minute adjustment.

“Adalyn is one of my athletes that I can change her position the night before and she’s going to get it done,” the coach said. “Having changes all week and being thrown into Round 2 the day before, I am super proud of the athlete she is, and the heart she carries for the team.”