The 2024–25 season was a banner year for Penncrest High School Cheerleading, marked by incredible performances, resilience under pressure, and continued national recognition. Under the leadership of Head Coach Gina Lucente, the Lions once again proved they belong among the nation’s best, capping their season with a 5th-place finish at Nationals—their fourth consecutive appearance in the finals—and cementing their place as one of the top 20 scoring teams across all divisions (among more than 1,250 programs).
All In, All Season
At Penncrest, success is a true team effort. “We don’t have captains,” Coach Lucente explains. “Every athlete plays a vital role and experiences leadership. Every voice is heard, and that unity fuels our season.” With 19 athletes working as one, the team thrived in both game day support and competition formats.
Season Highlights
It was a memorable year from start to finish. The Lions performed under the Friday night lights for a supportive home crowd and rallied behind the basketball team’s Elite 8 run in the PIAA State Tournament. On the competition floor, they secured their 4th straight regional title, earning yet another bid to Nationals in Orlando. Once there, despite major travel setbacks, the team delivered the best run-through of their season, leading to their top-five national finish.
Rising Above Adversity
A defining moment came when the team’s original flight to Orlando was canceled. Forced to fly into Miami a day later and drive to Orlando—losing a full day of practice, many would have crumbled. But not Penncrest. “They were so focused and determined, they nailed the routine in the first run,” said Lucente. “We didn’t even make them practice more. That’s never happened before.”
Individual Recognition & Growth
While the team believes in collective success, a few standout athletes were recognized in the inaugural Central League Cheerleader Honors:
First Team: Riley Duffy
Second Team: Abigail Wolf
Honorable Mention: Megan Falkinburg
Coach Lucente praised the development of all 19 athletes, noting how far they progressed from tryouts in the summer to performing on the national stage in February.
The Senior Legacy
This year’s senior class leaves a legacy of talent, joy, and excellence. “They were winners every single year—regionals, nationals—you name it,” Lucente said. “But more than that, they were kind, fun, and kept the team spirit high with music and dance parties. We’ll miss them more than words can say.”
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the foundation is strong. Returning athletes have seen what it takes to compete at the highest level. “They understand the assignment,” said Lucente. “They’re disciplined, motivated, and ready to take the next step.”
Offseason Goals
The program is already focused on growth areas, including motions, stunts, tumbling, crowd engagement, and quickly integrating new team members. The goal? Keep raising the bar.
Where to Find Stats
Detailed competition results, including regionals and nationals, are available on VarsityTV. For specific requests, Coach Lucente is happy to provide further details.
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All In, All Season
At Penncrest, success is a true team effort. “We don’t have captains,” Coach Lucente explains. “Every athlete plays a vital role and experiences leadership. Every voice is heard, and that unity fuels our season.” With 19 athletes working as one, the team thrived in both game day support and competition formats.
Season Highlights
It was a memorable year from start to finish. The Lions performed under the Friday night lights for a supportive home crowd and rallied behind the basketball team’s Elite 8 run in the PIAA State Tournament. On the competition floor, they secured their 4th straight regional title, earning yet another bid to Nationals in Orlando. Once there, despite major travel setbacks, the team delivered the best run-through of their season, leading to their top-five national finish.
Rising Above Adversity
A defining moment came when the team’s original flight to Orlando was canceled. Forced to fly into Miami a day later and drive to Orlando—losing a full day of practice, many would have crumbled. But not Penncrest. “They were so focused and determined, they nailed the routine in the first run,” said Lucente. “We didn’t even make them practice more. That’s never happened before.”
Individual Recognition & Growth
While the team believes in collective success, a few standout athletes were recognized in the inaugural Central League Cheerleader Honors:
First Team: Riley Duffy
Second Team: Abigail Wolf
Honorable Mention: Megan Falkinburg
Coach Lucente praised the development of all 19 athletes, noting how far they progressed from tryouts in the summer to performing on the national stage in February.
The Senior Legacy
This year’s senior class leaves a legacy of talent, joy, and excellence. “They were winners every single year—regionals, nationals—you name it,” Lucente said. “But more than that, they were kind, fun, and kept the team spirit high with music and dance parties. We’ll miss them more than words can say.”
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the foundation is strong. Returning athletes have seen what it takes to compete at the highest level. “They understand the assignment,” said Lucente. “They’re disciplined, motivated, and ready to take the next step.”
Offseason Goals
The program is already focused on growth areas, including motions, stunts, tumbling, crowd engagement, and quickly integrating new team members. The goal? Keep raising the bar.
Where to Find Stats
Detailed competition results, including regionals and nationals, are available on VarsityTV. For specific requests, Coach Lucente is happy to provide further details.)
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