The South Lyon East Cougarettes Pom teams are heading to Eastern Michigan University to compete in the MAPP States Championship on Sunday, February 9.

As the 2025 pom season comes to a close, the JV and Varsity Cougarettes will be competing against different pom teams all around the state of Michigan.  Around 60 pom teams will be competing in this competition. Not only are they competing this weekend for first place, but this is also their second year of both JV and Varsity qualifying for D1.

“I’m so lucky that I’m able to compete in division 1 for the last time competing with my home team,” says Senior Ruby Jewell.

Qualifying for D1 is a coveted spot in the pom world. Not only are you qualifying in the top division, but you’re competing against really good teams who are all looking for the same goal.

“It’s so nerve-wracking realizing you’re competing against some of the best pom teams ever,” Junior Makenna Hartley Expresses, “I might be scary but it means we have to put in a ton of effort to get first.”

The Cougarettes put in hard work during the fall season and continue a ton of work during the winter season. During the winter season, the pom team works on one routine for over 2 months.

“It’s so fun to be able to perform a routine you’ve been working on for months,” says Sophomore Erin Rockwell, “We’ve put in a ton of hard work and dedication for this season and it’s time to show it off.”

The States season isn’t just about the hard work you put in, it’s also about the memories you make. The Cougarettes spend a lot of their time with their teammates.

“Being able to be myself around people I care about and making memories with them at practice, is truly the highlight of the State season,” says Hartley.

It is not just Super Bowl Sunday on February 9, it’s also the MAPP State Championship. For more information check out @Midamericanpom on Instagram or @Southlyon_east_varsity_pompon on Instagram.