Mary Wesley JamesEDWARDSVILLE - Edwardsville High School junior Mary Wesley James had what was described by her coach Anna Schuetzenhofer as “an amazing day” at the IHSA State Cheer Championships last weekend.

Not only was James a participant on the Edwardsville High team that was second in the Large Schools competition, but she also sang the National Anthem prior to the start of the competition.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

The coach said she did “an amazing job” and Schuetzenhofer was so proud of her.

Article continues after sponsor message

Mary Wesley sings at her church and has also performed the National Anthem at EHS before, her coach said. She sees her future full of endless possibilities with her vocal talent and other abilities.

After her beautiful rendition of the National Anthem, James stepped over with her teammates and performed almost without a break. She was one of the key members of the cheer squad that brought home second place in the state trophy.

“It was incredible what she did,” her coach said. “I can only imagine her nerves of singing in front of the whole arena then doing the performance right after. She is truly a rock star.”

More like this:

Apr 12, 2024 - Nadja Kapetanovich Is Art Fahrner-Edward Jones Alton High School Remarkable Redbird Of the Month

3 days ago - Teacher Appreciation Week: Lauren Heigert is a Cheerleader for Her Students

3 days ago - NAACP's Annual Banquet to Feature Esteemed Speaker Tiffany Hightower

Yesterday - Teacher Appreciation Week: New Teacher Savannah Stover Looks Forward to the Future

Yesterday - Alton School Board Names Three New Administrators