Cheer groups gather for Best of the Midwest - KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and Sports

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) -- Where can you go to see gymnastics, acrobatics and lots of team spirit?

The Battle of the Midwest.

Twenty teams from local high schools, elementary schools and competitive squads competed on Saturday.

This was the 4th year, Ultimate Athletics has hosted the competition.

"To the parents they watch their children grow through the cheerleading and they see how they evolve into an athlete and they really love it. The girls are so excited when they come onto the mat and they've finally made it to their competition and they've finally hit it and performed well with people. So it's very exciting for the girls and for the parents."

For Chad McCarty, a parent and coach, today is a day he's been looking forward to all year.

McCarty says, "I enjoy watching, to be honest with you. Coaching is great and rewarding, but it's truly entertaining to watch. The skills that come up every year and watching some of these athletes from when they're this high to when they graduate is also pretty rewarding."

McCarty's daughter, Kassy, has been a cheerleader for 9 years and she says she still loves competing.

She explains, "Everything about it. Your friends, the activities, stunting, tumbling...it's all addicting."

An addiction that had many young athletes striving to be known as the "Best in the Midwest."