The Mount Vernon Knights celebratred in Disney World after making it to nationals for the first time in their program’s history.   

Former head coach Kei Ramsey came from Atlanta to watch the competition. Ramsey coached some of the current head coaches and paved the way for cheer scholarships at historically Black colleges and universities.  

"By giving them this opportunity, it lets them know that with hard work, you can accomplish anything,” Ramsey said. 

Although they did not win, the cheerleaders were grateful for the opportunity to pay tribute to their former captain Kayla Green, who was fatally stabbed almost a year ago.   

RELATED: Father of Kayla Green speaks out for first time as Mount Vernon cheerleaders ready for nationals  

Current varsity cheer captain, Annastajah Douglas, believes Green would be happy for them.   

"I feel like she's more than proud of us," Douglas said. "I know when all of us touched that mat, we were thinking about her.”

During their final day of celebration in Orlando, the Knights agreed that their bond as a team strengthened.  

"It was really nice going with my teammates. I really love being with them,” said one team member.  

The team thanked the donors who helped make their trip possible, including the mayor and school superintendent.   

RELATED: For Kayla: Mount Vernon cheer team competes at national championship in Florida