Gilmer High announced its all-region tennis and cheerleading teams last week and nine athletes were recognized.
Tennis all-region selections included Bobcat Brett Becker and Lady Cat Emma Callihan.
All-region cheerleaders are Dixie Williams, Lilly Penland, Emma Abernathy, Karla Orduna and Rachel Andrew. Both Keelie Cantrell and Lucy Thurman received an honorable mention.
Becker was a four-year varsity starter and a member of the Bobcats’ region championship team in 2019. He posted an 11-6 overall record this past season and helped the Bobcats finish as region runners-up. The Bobcats defeated Rockmart in the first round of the state tournament before losing to eventual state champion Westminster in the Sweet 16.
Callihan was a three-year varsity starter and capped her senior season with a 10-0 record. She was a member of the team in 2019 when the Lady Cats finished second in the region. As a No. 3 single, she helped the Cats reach the state tournament where they downed LaFayette. Just like the Bobcats, the Lady Cats dropped their second round match to eventual state champion Oconee County.
“Emma and Brett could always be counted on to give their all in matches and we hate to lose both,” said head coach Donna Parks. “Their selection to the all-region team is a testament to their abilities and is well-deserved.”
In cheerleading, the region representative and coaches determine all-region squads. Teams were selected based on region placement and each cheerleader’s individual seasonal performance.
Williams, Penland, Abernathy, Orduna, Andrew, Cantrell and Thurman all helped GHS reach the Class 3A state finals.
“The girls selected were all key players in making our season successful,” head coach Naomi Esparza said. “Each athlete had leadership skills they used throughout our entire season to keep the team together and working hard up until our last performance. They all worked diligently both on and off the floor to push themselves to be better athletes.
“Their placement on the all-region team is a true testament to their dedication to our program. I couldn’t be more proud of them and all of their hard work.”