Pahrump Valley Cheer Returns to Competition, Finishes Second with HIT ZERO

Pahrump Valley High School’s varsity cheer squad made a triumphant return to competitive cheer at the Spirit of the West Championships, finishing second in the Varsity Show Cheer Non-Tumbling Novice division and earning the meet’s only HIT ZERO. Nineteen athletes traveled to the event and 16 performed the 2.5-minute varsity routine under Head Coach Marshira Nelson and assistant Bonnie Duda.

HIT ZERO denotes no technical deductions, safety violations, or falls, and PVHS was the only team in its division to achieve that distinction. Athletes received HIT ZERO pins and individual medals, and the squad brought home a Spirit of the West Championship banner. Judges commended execution but identified areas for fine-tuning, noting prop safety adjustments, level changes in stunts, and projection as next steps for improvement.

The result matters in several ways for the Pahrump community. On the surface, a second-place finish with a flawless safety score validates coaching and athlete preparation after the program’s return to competition. For parents and local supporters, the HIT ZERO signals that athletes are performing to high safety and technical standards, which can reduce injury risk and long-term costs associated with medical care and program disruptions. The involvement of coaches and parents in event photography and support underscores a volunteer backbone that keeps the program viable without large increases in district spending.

The team’s performance also has intangible community benefits. Competitive visibility at a regional championship raises the profile of Pahrump Valley High School athletics, potentially aiding future fundraising and sponsorship efforts that support travel, equipment, and competition entry fees. For student-athletes, medals, pins, and a banner provide credentials that bolster school spirit and may attract younger athletes to feeder programs in the valley.

Coach Marshira Nelson and assistant Bonnie Duda led the squad through a clean routine that judges praised for its technical clarity. While judges recommended improvements in prop safety, stunt level changes, and projection, the absence of technical deductions highlights a disciplined approach to practice and meet-day performance.

Looking ahead, the HIT ZERO sets a clear benchmark for PVHS as it refines the areas noted by judges and considers additional competitive appearances. For Pahrump residents, the achievement is a local win: a safe, disciplined team that represents the valley well and strengthens community ties through volunteer support and visible success at a regional stage.