Competition brought out the best in the Ironton Middle School cheerleaders.

The IMS cheerleaders finished the season with impressive performances that included a national championship award.

“The girls worked so hard and gave their best at all times,” said Ironton coach Karen Arthur. “Ironton is blessed to have them representing our school.”

After their work cheering during the football and basketball seasons, the girls competed Feb. 27 in the Cheerleaders of America (COA) competition in Columbus and claimed a third place finish.

The following day the group was right back at it as they participated in the Cheer Power competition held at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena in Huntington, W.Va. Their efforts were rewarded with a first place honor.

But the biggest award came on March 6 in the Arnold Classic held in Columbus. The IMS cheerleaders captured the first place trophy and walked away with the national championship jackets.