Submitted by Anjanette Lee

Moapa Valley High School’s varsity spirit teams have once again proven that their performance in the classroom is just as impressive as their routines on the floor.

During a pep assembly held Friday, March 27, the school’s cheer and dance teams were officially recognized as the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association’s (NIAA) 2025-26 state academic champions for the 3A classification. Athletic director Dallas Larsen presented the teams with a commemorative plaque in front of the student body.

A tradition of excellence

The NIAA grants this prestigious honor at the end of each season to teams that achieve the highest cumulative unweighted GPAs in their respective divisions. For Moapa Valley, this victory marks a significant milestone:

Eighth total win for the spirit programs.

Fifth title secured within the last decade.

‘Intelligent and artistic’

Administrators and coaches were quick to praise the student-athletes for their dual commitment to academics and athletics.

“These are good kids who work hard in class and on the performance floor,” stated Mr. Ozaki, the administrator overseeing athletics.

Dance coach Anjie Lee emphasized the importance of the recognition, noting the multifaceted talent of the teams. “It is nice when the students get recognized,” Lee said. “They are very talented, both intelligent and artistic.”