I am writing in support of Joni Averill’s recent column in the Bangor Daily News titled, “Cheerleaders deserve to have a true tournament.”

Cheerleading competition in Maine needs to move from a one-shot, three-minute routine to regular competition throughout the season which leads to tournament qualification. Not every basketball team is allowed to compete in the tournament; cheerleading should be the same. Squads need to earn the right to be there just as other sport teams do. … Loriann Bates Junior varsity cheering coach Presque Isle High School