ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Cheerleaders from Leonardtown High School and Patuxent High School participated in the Cheerleaders of America Halftime Extravaganza on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, during the sold-out United States Navy vs. University of South Florida football game at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Navy won the matchup 41–38.
The halftime showcase brought together cheerleading squads from across several states, giving Southern Maryland (SoMD) athletes the opportunity to perform on a Division I football field in front of a packed stadium.
The Cheerleaders of America Halftime Extravaganza is held annually at select collegiate football games, featuring cheerleaders from youth, high school, and all-star programs across several states.
Leonardtown Head Cheerleading Coach Tami Trent said the teams arrived at 6:45 a.m. for on-field rehearsals that ran until 9 a.m. Before kickoff, the athletes met with family and supporters for a tailgate with music, cornhole and food.
Coach Trent said she was proud of how both Leonardtown squads handled the long day.
“I’m extremely proud of our athletes. They represented Leonardtown with dedication, teamwork, and positivity from start to finish.”
Patuxent Cheer Program Director Leah Somerville also praised her team’s ongoing involvement in the event.
“Patuxent cheer feels honored to have this as one of our traditions for eight years now. To be able to perform on such historic grounds is something we cherish and look forward to every year.”
Leonardtown’s varsity team earned a prime position during the halftime routine. “Being selected to perform on the 50-yard line was a special moment for our varsity team. Their hard work and commitment truly showed.”
PHS Cheer Team Manager Jessica O’Shea added that the moment was a reflection of the team’s efforts.
“Witnessing the sheer precision and athleticism of Patuxent High School’s cheer program during the Navy Halftime Extravaganza is a powerful reminder of the unified spirit and discipline our team and program has.”
The game held significant weight, as Navy defeated No. 24 South Florida in a 41–38 victory, propelling the Midshipmen to the top of the American Athletic Conference standings with an 8–2 overall record and a 6–1 mark in conference play.
The game also featured a historic achievement for Navy wide receiver Eli Heidenreich, who became the program’s all-time leader in receiving yards. He finished the night with five catches for 146 yards, surpassing the previous school record and bringing his career total to 1,794 receiving yards.
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