Practice to performance

From finishing last the previous year to taking first place in 2026, Wheaton High School’s Poms team made a huge improvement at the D2 MCPS National Poms Competition. 

After placing last in the competition in 2025, the Poms team returned in 2026 with the trophy in mind. The team spent months preparing for the competition, working on their routine, technique, and teamwork. They didn't let the previous competition weigh them down and instead used it as motivation to allow change and improvement. In the end, their hard work paid off when they ended up winning the competition. But what happens behind the scenes before the team steps onto the competition floor? How does the team practice for a performance this important? 

We talked to the captain of the Poms team, Ashley Avelar ‘27, about how the Poms practice and prepare for their performances at school games and events. She said, “We practice multiple times a week and go over our routine until everyone feels comfortable with it. We focus a lot on staying together and making sure our movements are sharp.” She also described the importance of staying motivated and persisting through challenges. The team encourages each other throughout practice, motivating each other to do the best they can. Practice has allowed the team to build a strong bond, creating a supportive environment where everyone can work together and improve. 

Practice isn't just about learning the choreography. The team also works on staying in sync, remembering formations, improving their technique, and building confidence in their performance.  Before competitions, the team spends a lot of time repeating their routine and fixing small mistakes. They do not get discouraged by their mistakes and instead allow them to reveal areas in which they need more practice.  

Another member of Wheaton High School’s Poms team, Helen Romero ‘27, explained, “Sometimes we will practice one part over and over again because we want everything to look clean. It can get tiring, but once everyone finally gets it, it all feels worth it.” She added that it's rewarding to see all their hard work come together on the day of the performance. 

Whether they are preparing for a school game, event, or competition, the Poms team puts a lot of work into every performance. From stretching and learning choreography to repeating and running the entire routine, every practice helps the team be more prepared. For the Poms, practice is what makes the performance what it is.

Copy edited by Walusha Fernandes