Rio Linda High School Cheer to Compete in Nationals
Jan 14, 2025 08:46AM ● By Annie Kerr
On Feb. 12, residents can see the cheer team perform one final time before their big competition. Photo courtesy of Michelle Deleon
RIO LINDA, CA (MPG) - The Rio Linda High School Cheer and Stunt Team is gearing up for a major milestone: their chance to compete at the United Spirit Association (USA) Spirit Nationals and Collegiate Championships in Anaheim from Feb. 13 to 17.
Both qualifying teams, the Game Day Situational Cheer and the Co-Ed Varsity Cheer, are led by head coach Michelle Deleon, now in her second year of head coaching at Rio Linda High School. Deleon’s relationship with the program runs much deeper, as she has been involved with the squad for 12 years, and three of her four children attended the high school.
The full squad is made up of 17 dedicated athletes, 13 girls and four boys, according to Deleon.
Last year was Rio Linda High School’s first time qualifying for Nationals, making this year their second consecutive appearance, according to Deleon. They will compete with the hope of improving on 2024’s performance and showcasing their skills on a national stage.
“Going to Nationals is such an incredible experience not only for ourselves but for our team as well,” said team captain Marissa Gutierrez. “Most of the people on our team have never stepped foot on a National Competition mat, which makes it so much more special. As a team, it’s so nice to be able to spend time with each other outside of practice. This trip really brings us together and ends our season on a great note.”

The Rio Linda High School Cheer and Stunt Team performed at the NorCal Princess Encounter at the American Cheer & Dance Challenge. Photo courtesy of Michelle Deleon
However, as is often the case with competitive cheerleading, the journey to Nationals comes with a hefty price tag.
“Cheer is a costly activity and we are looking for sponsors to help offset the costs,” Deleon said. “This past summer, our team attended the USA Summer Camp to build skills, relationships and unity. This year, our team is going to the National Competition in Anaheim. The cost for Nationals is $1,000 per participant.”
To make their dream of competing in Anaheim a reality, the team organized several successful fundraising events in recent months.
On Dec. 18, the Rio Linda Knights hosted a Bingo Night at the school’s cafeteria, where community members enjoyed an evening of bingo for $20. The event was a success, bringing together students, parents and local supporters in the spirit of teamwork for the upcoming competition.
Then, on Dec. 21, the squad held a Kids Camp, where they spent the day with children aged 4 to 12. The event was packed with activities, including a pancake breakfast, arts and crafts, a cheer clinic and a movie. The children had the opportunity to learn from the cheerleaders while engaging in a day of excitement.

The Knights Cheerleading squad is prepared to take on Nationals in Anaheim. Photo courtesy of Michelle Deleon
The team has worked hard to raise funds but additional support is still needed. According to Deleon, the team has already raised $15,000 but still needs an additional $4,000 to meet its goal.
“We would not have a program without community support,” said Deleon.
For those who wish to support the team, donations can be made via check or online. Checks can be mailed to Rio Linda High School, 6309 Dry Creek Road, Rio Linda, CA 95673 and made out to “Rio Linda High School Cheer.” The school’s tax ID number is 26-1773196. As a nonprofit organization under the 501(c)(3) code within the Twin Rivers Unified School District, all donations made to the team are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Another way to donate is via the cheerleading team’s online link, available at https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/prdembd?ref=ZZ5RGB7DKMFTOHR_ZZ5VLV6QKXKT2PC.

Rio Linda cheerleaders pump up the crowd at a prior event. Photo courtesy of Michelle Deleon
In terms of practice, the team has been working hard, training three to four days a week as competition approaches, according to Deleon.
“I am really proud of how hard they are working,” Deleon said. “It’s just not cheerleading; it’s teaching these students life skills, teamwork and discipline.”
According to Deleon, if anyone wants to see the team perform before they leave for Nationals, they are performing at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 12 at Rio Linda High School Large Gym. There will be a $5 cash only entry fee as a last chance fundraiser.
As the squad continues to prepare for Nationals, the community’s support will play a crucial role in ensuring the team has the resources needed to compete at their highest level, according to Deleon.