Northeast Cheer Stars Teams Prepare for Competitions

Fort Morgan program has grown from recreational to competitive in three years

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:21pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a competitive cheer team performing their routine.The high-energy, neon-soaked illustration captures the spirit of the Northeast Cheer Stars as they prepare to compete at the upcoming Jackpot Nationals in Las Vegas.Sioux Falls Today

Three years ago, Keema Bowen started the Northeast Cheer Stars as a small, recreational cheer program in Fort Morgan. After being invited to showcase a routine at a competition, the program moved into competitive cheer the next season. Now the program has four teams with athletes ranging in ages from 4 to 15, most from Morgan County. The teams have competed in about 10 events this season, with at least one team placing in the top three at every competition.

Why it matters

The growth of the Northeast Cheer Stars program from a small recreational group to a competitive cheer program with multiple teams demonstrates the increasing popularity and competitiveness of youth cheer in the Northeast region. The program's success also highlights the dedication and commitment of the athletes, coaches, and organizers in building a thriving cheer community.

The details

Northeast Cheer Stars is now led by Keema Bowen and four other coaches - Erin Keirnes, Jillana Perez, Ana Carillo, and Carenity Silz. The program has four teams that have competed in about 10 events this season, with at least one team placing in the top three at every competition. At a recent event in Denver, two teams earned first place and two placed third. Earlier in the season, the program brought home first and second place finishes. In January, one team earned an ultra paid bid to a national event in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and two other teams also qualified for a larger national event in Orlando, though the program is not ready for that level yet. The teams will next compete at Jackpot Nationals in Las Vegas.

  • Three years ago, Keema Bowen started Northeast Cheer Stars as a small, recreational cheer program in Fort Morgan.
  • The program moved into competitive cheer the next season after being invited to showcase a routine at a competition.
  • In January, the program traveled to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to try for a nationals bid.
  • The teams will compete next at Jackpot Nationals in Las Vegas, a two-day event under the Royal Events organization.

The players

Keema Bowen

The founder and head coach of the Northeast Cheer Stars program.

Erin Keirnes

One of the four coaches for the Northeast Cheer Stars program.

Jillana Perez

One of the four coaches for the Northeast Cheer Stars program.

Ana Carillo

One of the four coaches for the Northeast Cheer Stars program.

Carenity Silz

One of the four coaches for the Northeast Cheer Stars program.

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What they’re saying

“The sport teaches athletes to show up for one another. If one is out, the group won't run certain stunts. We count on each other.”

— Keema Bowen, Founder and Head Coach, Northeast Cheer Stars

What’s next

The Northeast Cheer Stars teams will compete next at Jackpot Nationals in Las Vegas, a two-day event under the Royal Events organization. Several athletes will also compete as soloists.

The takeaway

The growth and success of the Northeast Cheer Stars program demonstrates the increasing popularity and competitiveness of youth cheer in the region. The program's commitment to developing well-rounded athletes who support one another is a testament to the positive impact of community-based sports programs.