Revere Patriots cheerleaders earn nationals bid after near-podium state finish

By Dom Nicastro

After finishing just one-tenth of a point shy of a state podium finish, the Revere High School cheerleading squad didn’t hang its head — it went back to work.

The Patriots captured a Greater Boston League title, placed second in regionals and earned fourth in the Massachusetts Large Coed Division at the state championships during the fall season, a performance strong enough to qualify them for Nationals in Orlando at the end of March.

And this winter, the Patriots came back with another strong showing at the GBLs and now prepares for state and national level competitions.

For a program that has steadily built momentum under coaches Kayle Pezzuto and Sabrina Sloan, the opportunity to compete on the national stage represents both validation and unfinished business.

Balancing academics with demanding practices across both fall and winter seasons, the team has leaned on resilience, deep-rooted bonds and leadership from a senior class determined to leave its mark.

As the Patriots prepare for Orlando, Pezzuto reflected on the journey, the growth of her captains and what lies ahead.

What were the highlights from the fall and why?

During the 2025 fall season, our team took home the GBL title, second place in the region, and fourth in the Massachusetts Large Coed Division. They missed placing at States by one-tenth of a point. They took that and let it drive them to come back better winter season.

What were the highlights from the winter and why?

On Sunday, Feb. 22, we competed in the Greater Boston League Championship. Our team scored the highest we have seen since taking over this program. We look forward to seeing how the team places at regionals on March 1 and states on March 8.

What can you say about the team’s improvement over the course of this school year?

This team has overcome so many challenges over the years, and they are ready to hit the ground running this season. Their determination, teamwork and resilience are unmatched. We have always said one of the most rewarding aspects of coaching this team is their bond. Many of our athletes have been cheering together since elementary school, and getting the opportunity to coach a team with such a deep-rooted bond is a privilege. As a coaching team, Sabrina and I pride ourselves on upholding respect and kindness as our core values, and these kids radiate both of those things on and off the mat.

Who were the captains and what did they bring to the team?

Geovanny Acetty: Geo has been on the team since we took over this program. His growth, attention to detail and work ethic are things that have truly made an impact on this program and will be felt even after he graduates. He is a true star on and off the mat and, more importantly, he is an incredible person.

Briana Capunay: Bri is someone over the years who has truly come into herself. She has grown so much not only as an athlete, but as a person. She is not the loudest, but she always leads by example and never gives up when things get tough.

Nick Freitas: Nick is new to our team this year, but he fits in like he’s been around forever. The second he joined the team; he led without having to be told. He has a way about him that motivates everyone around him, and it is clear that he wants the best for everyone and the program. Nick is someone who will leave an impact on this program even when he graduates. We have learned so much from him and are grateful he found his home at RHS cheer.

Jessica Farro: Jess is someone who has a way of bridging the relationship between coaches and teammates. She is respected by her peers, while also being someone who, as coaches, we can count on. When dynamics get difficult, she is always able to break through and lift spirits. We are grateful to get to coach her for another year following this one.

What’s ahead for the team?

This March, we will be traveling to Orlando, Fla., to compete on the national level. This is such a deserving group of kids, and we cannot wait to watch them shine. If you would like to help support this trip, please consider donating to our GoFundMe page to make this possible for these athletes! https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-revere-cheerleaders-compete-nationally