By TAYLOR BECK, Sports Editor
Albertville’s “Fear the Hydrant” routine transformed hometown pride into a national title.
The Albertville Aggies Cheerleading Team captured the 2026 National High School Cheerleading Championship on Sunday in the Large Gameday Division, bringing home a team trophy, individual medals and the coveted white champion jackets.
For a program already celebrating its first state title just months ago, the national crown marked another historic milestone — and capped a season head coach Jeromy Shaw called unforgettable.
Shaw, in his first year leading the Aggies, said the moment exceeded every expectation he had when he first accepted the job.
“I am just thankful to be a part of this moment with our team and coaching staff,” Shaw said. “When I interviewed for this job, I never thought we would exceed the expectations set. We had two-a-day practices since August, and this team maintained a great attitude and work ethic, earning each of them a title. We worked hard, we kept God first, and we stayed a family this season. We are thankful to our community, and our goal has always been to bring something positive back to Albertville.”
Shaw said his vision for the program began forming during the interview process itself. While touring the school, inspiration struck from an unlikely place — Albertville’s unique identity.
The Aggies’ routine, titled “Fear the Hydrant,” paid homage to the city being known as the “fire hydrant capital of the world,” giving Albertville a theme that stood out among dozens of mascots at the national event.
“You always want to stand out when at a competition full of Lions, Tigers and Bears,” Shaw said. “By my second interview, I created a binder with all my plans and vision for the team.”
The national championship follows Albertville’s Class 7A state championship in November inside Birmingham’s Bill Harris Arena — the first AHSAA sports title in school history. Now, the Aggies have added a national trophy to match.
“For the people who know my story and how I ended up here, I want this journey to fully show the grace and kindness of God,” Shaw said.
Team members include Macy Lang, Alivia Nadrotowski, Valerie Beasley, Emma Cox, Eve Browning, Trinity Harbison, Olivia Moore, Mollie Walker, Kendyll Sheffey, Alivia Johnson, Dezyree Oliver, Lauren Murphy, Ainzlee Boman, Sadie Maltbie, RK Busha, AK Winegarden, Aria Benefield, Ava Morton, Adalynn Baker, Corbyn Jayne Eads, Annalise Burke, Erah Kate Reese and Betsy Floyd.
The squad is coached by Shaw, Tanika Colvin and Mary Grace Hand.
The Albertville cheerleaders celebrate Sunday after being named national champions in the large varsity game day division at the National High School Cheerleading Championship at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Albertville won the Class 5A state championship in gameday cheerleading competition in November. The Aggies won in Jeromy Shaw’s first season as the head cheer coach. SPECIAL TO THE LEADER
