by Katie Hill
On Dec. 29, a select few from the York Suburban varsity cheerleading team made their way to Orlando to compete in the pregame show at the Citrus Bowl. The ten cheerleaders were able to make this journey because of their performance at a summer camp in 2015. They won an award in which made them eligible to take part in the show, flipping and twirling for hundreds before the game.
Although this was not a chore for the girls who have dedicated themselves to the sport, it did teach them responsibility and life skills.
“Being a captain and making this trip opened my eye to all the things the coach would have to handle if she didn’t have captains. Gabby [Lipheart] (senior) and I helped coach with spirit wear, text messages to the girls on game days, and keeping track of money,” said senior captain Madi Elliot.
This is not the first time that Suburban cheerleaders have ventured to Florida to perform for an audience. Coach Leslee Yoder has taken several sets of girls to cheerlead at the Citrus Bowl as well as at the Disney Christmas Parade.
The girls’ participation in the summer camp has taken them a long way, so far that they have been able to gain professional cheering experience like the aspect of cheering in front of a big crowd as well as competition.
“The best memory from the trip was being on the college football field and cheering in front of all the fans who could see the performance from every angle,” said Elliot.
Although the tensions (and temperature) were high, the girls were able to come together to not only show the audience the technique and skill they have perfected, but also the close bonds they have formed.
“My favorite part was gaining the experience and making the memories with my friends,” said senior Kayla DeGaray.
Coach Leslee Yoder was unavailable for comment.