Pelham cheerleaders brace for energetic new season at annual youth camp

By DONALD MOTTERN | Staff Writer

PELHAM – Pelham’s annual Youth Cheer Camp concluded recently following a weeklong run at Pelham High School that brought more than 130 young cheerleaders into the halls for a head start to this year’s program.

The annual Pelham Youth Cheer Camp, which has traditionally occurred during the week before the launch of the official cheer season, began on Monday, July 22 and concluded on Friday, July 26. In total, 134 young cheerleaders from grades one through six are now registered for the 2024 season and are now ready and prepared to take their part in the formation.

To accommodate the large turnout and diverse age range, participants were divided into squads by grade. Over the course of the week, each group received training and instructions that focused on a wide number of techniques and skills related to the sport.

Pelham’s high school cheerleaders also played a crucial role in this year’s camp by taking a leading role in the instruction of these elements that included cheers, stunts and dance routines which incorporated examples developed by the high schoolers themselves.

With support from their coaches, these freshly introduced elements will help form the cornerstones for the youth program’s upcoming season which will be showcased throughout the school year during school events, football game cheers, halftime performances and cheer competitions.

“The (young) cheerleaders love getting to meet their friends and have a fun introduction to the upcoming season, while learning tons from cheerleaders they all grow to love and look up to as they prepare for the season ahead,” said Charlie Sanders, coordinator for the Pelham Youth Cheer program. “Many communities do not give such opportunities, so it is a privilege to allow our young cheerleaders and our volunteer coaches to interact with and learn from the high school cheerleaders and coaches.”

The camp’s atmosphere was described as both lively and productive, with fun and laughter mixed equally together in proportion with that of focus and determination.

“Morale is (always) high, everyone is laughing and having fun and enjoying the different dress-up themes each day, yet everyone also knows there is important, foundational work and learning taking place, so there is a great balance of fun and seriousness,” Sanders said.

Sanders also expressed gratitude for the continued support that has allowed Pelham to maintain an active and successful cheerleading program.

“We are so thankful for PHS Youth Cheer coaches, cheerleaders and all involved who give our participants such an amazing opportunity each year.”

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