Division Avenue Cheerleading: A Record-Breaking Season of Resilience, Leadership, and Legacy
The 2025 winter cheer season will go down as one of the most historic in Division Avenue High School's program history. Under the dynamic leadership of Head Coach Cristen Marcy, Co-Coach Liz Lynch, and Volunteer Assistant Coach Sofia Guerra, the cheer team not only shattered expectations but also raised the bar for what’s possible in high school cheerleading.
With a roster full of driven athletes, a commitment to excellence, and an unbreakable team bond, Division Avenue capped off an unforgettable season—undefeated in all local competitions, a powerful showing at Nationals, and a near-win at the County Championship that left the team more motivated than ever.
Undefeated Locally, Dominant Nationally
For the first time in the history of the program, Division Avenue went undefeated in all local competitions, a milestone that reflects the extraordinary discipline and cohesion of this year’s team. “This was the first time in our program’s history that we’ve gone undefeated locally,” Coach Marcy proudly shared. “That speaks volumes about the commitment and determination of these athletes.”
But the local circuit was just the beginning. The team traveled to Nationals, where they competed in the most competitive division and hit a flawless routine in the Finals, earning 11th place out of 94 teams. That finish placed Division Avenue among the nation’s elite cheer programs and validated the months of grueling preparation that led up to that moment.
One of the few setbacks of the season came at the County Championship, where a minor fall led to a 1-point deduction. Despite the team’s best efforts, that narrow margin cost them the title by just .9 points, landing them in second place. Still, that moment wasn’t seen as a loss—it was fuel. “They pushed through every time and put on so many performances we were proud of,” said Coach Marcy. “Their resilience was unmatched.”
Leaders on the Mat and in the Locker Room
At the heart of Division Avenue’s success was a core group of leaders who set the tone for excellence.
Mia Stimac (Junior) emerged as a true cornerstone of the program. A varsity athlete since 8th grade and one of this year’s captains, Mia led with poise and maturity well beyond her years. Her efforts were recognized on a grand scale as she was named to Newsday’s First Team All-Long Island.
Ava Incendio (Senior) brought unmatched energy and determination. Her pep talks, flawless technique, and consistent work ethic inspired her teammates to elevate their performance every day. Her leadership by example was a vital ingredient in the team’s chemistry.
Senior Captains Rayanne Choy, Mia Gray, and Ava DelGiorno also left a lasting mark. Their drive and dedication helped steer the program through high-pressure moments and inspired younger teammates to step up.
This leadership was foundational to a season full of high-stakes routines and fierce competition, and it created a culture that will continue even after their graduation.
Breakout Stars and Rising Talent
The 2025 season wasn’t just about established veterans—it was also a breakout year for several emerging athletes.
Mia Gray (Senior), who previously faced a season-ending injury, came back stronger than ever, finding her voice as a motivator and earning the title of Side Base of the Year in Class B.
Victoria Sepulveda (Junior) delivered an inspirational comeback story. After missing last season due to injury, she stunned judges and teammates alike with elite aerial performances, earning her a spot on Newsday’s 50 Cheerleaders to Watch and being named Flyer of the Year in Class B.
Victoria DelGiorno (8th Grade) was a revelation. Despite being the youngest on the varsity squad, she executed high-level stunting and tumbling skills with confidence. Her growth was undeniable, and she was awarded Rookie of the Year in Class B.
These athletes represent the future of Division Avenue Cheer—skilled, fearless, and eager to build on the legacy left by their senior leaders.
A Culture of Resilience and Mental Toughness
What set this team apart wasn’t just their athletic ability—it was their mental toughness. Coming off a State Championship win the previous season, the pressure to repeat was enormous. With that came the challenge of competing with the hardest routine the program has ever attempted.
But the team didn’t buckle under pressure—they rose to meet it. “They pushed through every time,” Coach Marcy said. Whether navigating a difficult practice, facing down a packed gym, or bouncing back from a tough score sheet, the team leaned on each other.
This resilience was a direct result of the culture built by the coaching staff and embraced by the athletes. It’s that same mindset that will continue to carry the program forward.
Seniors Who Shaped the Program
The impact of the Class of 2025 cannot be overstated. “This senior class brought a tremendous amount of leadership, resilience, and dedication,” said Coach Marcy. Their influence extended far beyond performances—they mentored younger teammates, led practices, and set the tone both on and off the mat.
Their work ethic, character, and presence helped solidify a team-first culture that will serve as the blueprint for years to come. Though their time in uniform has come to a close, their legacy is deeply embedded in the foundation of Division Avenue Cheer.
What’s Next: Hungry for More
If this past season taught the team anything, it’s that excellence requires constant pursuit. And the work has already begun.
“The season hasn’t even started yet, and the girls are already working hard at open gyms,” Coach Marcy shared. The returning athletes are bringing with them a unique perspective: they know what it feels like to win big, and they know what it’s like to fall just short. That duality is driving them to push harder than ever.
With strong returning leaders, an influx of rising talent, and a coaching staff that continues to raise the standard, the future of Division Avenue Cheer is incredibly bright.
Stay Connected
For those looking to keep up with stats, updates, and competition results, information can be found on the Nassau County Section VIII website. The team also shares news and highlights through their school and athletic social media channels.
In Conclusion
The 2025 season for Division Avenue High School Cheerleading was a season of firsts, comebacks, and extraordinary performances. It was defined not only by wins and placements, but by the heart, leadership, and resilience of every athlete who wore the uniform.
As the team looks ahead to next season, one thing is clear: this isn’t the end of a great run—it’s just the beginning of something even greater.
 emerged as a true cornerstone of the program. A varsity athlete since 8th grade and one of this year’s captains, Mia led with poise and maturity well beyond her years. Her efforts were recognized on a grand scale as she was named to Newsday’s First Team All-Long Island.
Ava Incendio (Senior) brought unmatched energy and determination. Her pep talks, flawless technique, and consistent work ethic inspired her teammates to elevate their performance every day. Her leadership by example was a vital ingredient in the team’s chemistry.
Senior Captains Rayanne Choy, Mia Gray, and Ava DelGiorno also left a lasting mark. Their drive and dedication helped steer the program through high-pressure moments and inspired younger teammates to step up.
This leadership was foundational to a season full of high-stakes routines and fierce competition, and it created a culture that will continue even after their graduation.
Breakout Stars and Rising Talent
The 2025 season wasn’t just about established veterans—it was also a breakout year for several emerging athletes.
Mia Gray (Senior), who previously faced a season-ending injury, came back stronger than ever, finding her voice as a motivator and earning the title of Side Base of the Year in Class B.
Victoria Sepulveda (Junior) delivered an inspirational comeback story. After missing last season due to injury, she stunned judges and teammates alike with elite aerial performances, earning her a spot on Newsday’s 50 Cheerleaders to Watch and being named Flyer of the Year in Class B.
Victoria DelGiorno (8th Grade) was a revelation. Despite being the youngest on the varsity squad, she executed high-level stunting and tumbling skills with confidence. Her growth was undeniable, and she was awarded Rookie of the Year in Class B.
These athletes represent the future of Division Avenue Cheer—skilled, fearless, and eager to build on the legacy left by their senior leaders.
A Culture of Resilience and Mental Toughness
What set this team apart wasn’t just their athletic ability—it was their mental toughness. Coming off a State Championship win the previous season, the pressure to repeat was enormous. With that came the challenge of competing with the hardest routine the program has ever attempted.
But the team didn’t buckle under pressure—they rose to meet it. “They pushed through every time,” Coach Marcy said. Whether navigating a difficult practice, facing down a packed gym, or bouncing back from a tough score sheet, the team leaned on each other.
This resilience was a direct result of the culture built by the coaching staff and embraced by the athletes. It’s that same mindset that will continue to carry the program forward.
Seniors Who Shaped the Program
The impact of the Class of 2025 cannot be overstated. “This senior class brought a tremendous amount of leadership, resilience, and dedication,” said Coach Marcy. Their influence extended far beyond performances—they mentored younger teammates, led practices, and set the tone both on and off the mat.
Their work ethic, character, and presence helped solidify a team-first culture that will serve as the blueprint for years to come. Though their time in uniform has come to a close, their legacy is deeply embedded in the foundation of Division Avenue Cheer.
What’s Next: Hungry for More
If this past season taught the team anything, it’s that excellence requires constant pursuit. And the work has already begun.
“The season hasn’t even started yet, and the girls are already working hard at open gyms,” Coach Marcy shared. The returning athletes are bringing with them a unique perspective: they know what it feels like to win big, and they know what it’s like to fall just short. That duality is driving them to push harder than ever.
With strong returning leaders, an influx of rising talent, and a coaching staff that continues to raise the standard, the future of Division Avenue Cheer is incredibly bright.
Stay Connected
For those looking to keep up with stats, updates, and competition results, information can be found on the Nassau County Section VIII website. The team also shares news and highlights through their school and athletic social media channels.
In Conclusion
The 2025 season for Division Avenue High School Cheerleading was a season of firsts, comebacks, and extraordinary performances. It was defined not only by wins and placements, but by the heart, leadership, and resilience of every athlete who wore the uniform.
As the team looks ahead to next season, one thing is clear: this isn’t the end of a great run—it’s just the beginning of something even greater.)
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