October 13, 2025
Malia Higgins, welcome to an incredibly exclusive statewide club — the best of the best.
And when it comes to Gilbert Schools, you’re now in a club of one.
Higgins, a Gilbert High School junior and three-year member of the Gilbert football and competitive cheerleading teams, learned Sunday evening she has been selected to be a member of the 2025-26 Iowa All-State Cheerleading Team.
Gilbert cheerleading coach Jordan Sytsma got the call from the state association, and after she cried happy tears for a few minutes, she relayed the good news to Higgins.
“I cried when I got the news because I’m just so proud of her. It’s a really big deal,” Sytsma said.
Higgins is the first Gilbert cheerleader to ever be selected for the all-state team. She tried out for the squad on Sunday at Ames Middle School.
More than 150 of the best cheerleaders from across the state tried out for the team over two days, and 25 were selected for the team. Three alternates were also named.
“It’s the highest honor in Iowa high school cheerleading,” Sytsma said. “The best cheerleaders in the state try out, so for her to make this team is just fantastic.”
The Iowa All-State Cheerleading Team will practice throughout the winter and will perform at the boys state basketball tournament in March.
Please join us in congratulating Malia on this incredible accomplishment! Malia, your hard work and dedication are matched only by your passion for the sport of cheerleading. We cannot wait to watch you and cheer you on in March.
