WV cheerleaders score big at NCA cheer camp

The Wildcats 2024 Fall Preseason is under way! The Wildcats varsity and junior varsity Cheerleaders were one of our first teams to kick things off, as they embarked on a four-day immersive camp experience at the National Cheer Association (NCA) Cheer Camp in Pennsylvania last week!

Both teams embraced the camp’s spirit with enthusiasm and dedication, and took the opportunity to demonstrate their exceptional skills. Their hard work paid off in a big way, and we’re proud to share that the cheer squads walked away with several outstanding achievements. Their numerous awards and recognitions highlight the commitment to and talent for cheerleading.

The varsity team was a standout, topping 19 teams to earn the prestigious NCA Best All Around 2024 Award and receiving the Spirit Stick for all four days of camp. The NCA Spirit Stick is the organization’s symbol of excellent sportsmanship and character. The Wildcats also secured the Mega Spirit Stick on Day 2. The varsity team also achieved 3rd Place in their Jam Performance, and won both a Tumble Technical Award and a Team Herkie Award.

Individual accolades included:

• Top Gun Jump Winner: Amelia Barravecchia
• Top Gun Tumble Winner: Taylor Secord
• NCA All-Americans:
  • Taylor Secord
  • Gabi DiMarco
  • Jolie O’Neill
  • Amelia Barravecchia
  • Amiya Chatman
  • Janiya Chatman
  • Sophia DeGroat
  • Mayli Winfrey

Taylor Secord also received the NCA All-American Top Overall Camp Score. Amelia Barravecchia, Gabi DiMarco, and Olivia Retcho were honored with the Pin It Forward Award.

The junior varsity team had an outstanding camp, securing the Spirit Stick for all four days and earning 2nd Place in the Jam Performance. Congratulations to Emma Pasciuto for her Pin It Forward recognition.

“Camp was an invaluable experience for skill development, as our cheerleaders enhanced their stunts, jumps, and tumbling techniques through expert guidance from the NCA staff,” said WVMS teacher and varsity cheer coach Elizabeth Sullivan. “The camaraderie among our cheerleaders was also strengthened, with lasting friendships and teamwork skills being cultivated. As we look forward to the fall 2024 season, our pride in the teams’ achievements is immense.”

NCA camps are not just about hard work, but also about fun. Along with expert professional guidance, the camps provide team-building activities, games, and themed events, like the delightful ice cream party that added to the Wildcats’ memorable experience.