DEKALB – The DeKalb High School cheerleader squads got right to work during their summer break by attending a camp facilitated by the National Cheerleading Association at Northern Illinois University in June.
Both the varsity and junior varsity squads worked hard on routines, stunts, cheers, and chants during the four-day session. The varsity squad came home with a trunk full of awards.
The DHS squad received the Herkie Team plaque, awarded to the one squad that shows true team spirit, unity, and leadership throughout the week. As a result of winning this award, the team will have an opportunity to travel to NCA special events held in Hawaii, Florida, or New York.
The girls also received the technical excellence certificate for their tumbling skills during evaluations. Both the JV and varsity squads received a bid to the national events. In order to receive a bid the squad must have completed a list of requirements while at camp which include a positive attitude, receive a spirit stick and showing good sportsmanship.
Individually, 14 DeKalb High School cheerleaders were nominated for the All American team. These athletes displayed superior cheerleading techniques in any of the following areas: jumps, tumbling, stunting, motion technique, leadership and dance.
Those who were nominated are: Gabrielle Klenke, Brittney Johnson, Lydia Faivre, Abbey Hartwig, Olivia Hayes, Corlean Reed, Caroline Struthers, Brittani Click, Chelsea Kaye Dainelson, Brittany Munz, Alex Reed, Gianna Pecoraro, Alyssa Peters and Frankie Zenker.
Out of 130 campers only 12 campers made the All American team, including three from DeKalb – Gabrielle Klenke, Lydia Faivre, and Gianna Pecoraro.
Coach Anne Faivre said the camp was a great way to start the new cheer season. The accomplishments of the girls will enable them to provide leadership at DeKalb High School and to bring a great deal of spirit to the fall and winter sports this year.
:quality(70)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/shawmedia/NSO6C3Z7BDZBBSXVGVPAS5A7HY.jpg)