I started cheerleading when I was in kindergarten. It was a lot of fun to stand on stage with pom-poms. However, when I started competing seriously in junior high school, I ...... feel inferior to the high level of those around me. There were times I hesitated about quitting, but I kept competing with the desire to win first place.

In high school, I was able to achieve my goal of winning the national championship. However, I myself made mistakes during the performance and didn't feel like I had given it my all. When I was continuing dancing at university, the idea that came to mind was CREAM (J. F. Oberlin University Song Reading Club). When I participated in the same competition, I was impressed by the unique worldview CREAM created and the atmosphere of the members. Their demeanor was beautiful, and their performances showed the strength of each member. I decided to enroll in J. F. Oberlin University because I wanted to dance with a team like this.

CREAM is a strong team that competes in national tournaments, so the audition team selection is tough. In my first year, I felt pressure wondering if I could make the team. Even so, at J. F. Oberlin University, I feel that all members have a strong awareness of creating performances together, and I feel they value the connections among members. We help each other across grades and listen to each other's concerns. I think this strength comes from all the members sincerely facing their performances and aiming to be number one in Japan. Now that I'm a sophomore in college, I have become more conscious of the team's goals. Sometimes I act as a bridge between seniors and juniors, helping to energize the team as a mood maker.

This spring, I went to the United States to participate in the ICU World Cheerleading Championships. The cheers directed at the dancers were loud, and I realized that not only the whole group but also individual performances were being recognized. After returning to Japan, I think the reason I can practice dance in a good atmosphere is because my experience in America has been a source of motivation. Having dancers from different countries interact is also a fun memory, and I am practicing hard so that someday I can stand on the same stage.

We came in third place at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships, but next year we want to win first place domestically. The training leading up to the competition is hard, seven days a week, but it's not a burden because our goal is clear.

I believe CREAM's strength lies in our ability to showcase each member's individuality while maintaining a sense of unity through synchronized teamwork. We will hone our skills and prepare for the competition so that we can bring energy to everyone who watches our dance. Please pay attention to our teamwork!