During the summer, the cheerleaders went to camp from June 12 to 15.
The girls learned new cheers, routines, dances and stunts at camp, said coach Regina Hollinger.
The awards include:
– Amanda Meeks, senior, – Best Smile
– Alea Russell, sophomore, – Leadership Pin
– Kalyn Bell, senior, Grace Burton, sophomore, Taylor Murdock, sophomore, – All American
– Grace Burton, freshman – Best Jumps In Freshman/ Sophomore division
The cheer team also received Superior Ribbons for all three days of evaluation, Spirit Stick for best spirit, second place game day routine, Superior Trophy Overall and the Top Banana.
Hollinger said the banana is the most coveted award at UCA Summer Camp because it is earned by the squad that displays leadership and an overwhelming amount of spirit each day throughout camp
“When we received the Banana Trophy it was a really high award, and it was special because all our hard work paid off,” Junior Olivia Beets said.
Beets said the cheer team challenges one another to get better.
Russell said the team felt pumped and positive to earn the banana award. She said she thinks the team will win it again because they will work just as hard to get it.
“I am personally working on my jumps and my team is working towards cooler stunts,” Russell said.
Beets and Russell said they look forward to their competitions and games, especially homecoming.
“The team is working towards more school spirit and crowd involvement,” Hollinger said. “The cheerleaders will be using signs.”