Eastwood Mall welcomed the Girard cheerleading squad on Wednesday afternoon to celebrate their state championship victory with the community.

Girard's competitive cheerleading program started in 2022 and was the state runner-up last year. 

As part of the celebration, the Cafaro Foundation made a $10,000 donation to Girard High School. 

Out of the roster of 10 cheerleaders, five will be graduating in May.

Laiyah Pappa, one of the Senior Cheerleaders, said that she is grateful to have spent the last four years with her team.

"It's bittersweet because we have to say goodbye to the girls," Pappa said. "But at least we could say goodbye in a good way and leave them with something big."

With the departure of the seniors, the remaining members will be stepping up into new roles. The team's coach, Francesca Hover, looks forward to seeing the team continue to improve.

"I think that this is a milestone that some people don't get to achieve," Hover said. "Now that we're there, I am excited for the future and what's to come."

Girard cheerleading will look to get back into the state title picture this upcoming 2026 season.