After helping the Dove Creek cheerleading team finish third in the Colorado 1A/2A cheerleading competition, Bulldogs’ super-senior Shelbie Knuckles was named to the 1A/2A all-state team.

One of four Colorado seniors named to the team, Knuckles was pleased to receive the prestigious award that she claimed would have been impossible absent contributions made by her teammates.

“It was kind of surprising,” said Knuckles. “It’s very humbling. All the other girls I cheer with, they work so hard, I wish they could have made the (all-state) team too.”

Since only one member of each team could make the all-state team however, Knuckles proudly represented her fellow seniors, who, together, worked hard for a number of years.

“It’s not easy,” said Knuckles. “We go from having a two-hour basketball or volleyball practice to a two-hour cheerleading practice.”

Even with the demanding workload, Knuckles stated that cheerleading in Dove Creek was more than worth it.

As for her plans following graduation, Knuckles plans to attend college where she may or may not join the cheerleading team.

“I have considered it,” said Knuckles. I have looked at some of the requirements that they have in college. They are tough. We’ll see.”

Regardless of whether Knuckles cheers in college however, the Dove Creek star can always be proud of the fact that she ranked among the state’s best during her final season.