Cove cheerleaders qualify for national, international performances

By WENDY SLEDD Special to Leader-Press COLLEGE STATION — More han 500 cheerleaders and mascots packed into the gymnasium at Texas A&M. Spirits were high, but expectations were higher. Each individual hoped to be selected as an elite All-American and each team had a unified focus: winning a first place trophy at the Universal Cheerleading Association camp. For the Copperas Cove High School cheerleaders and mascot Sparkles, the goal was achieved when the team competed against more than 12 other teams to win the first place trophy in Game Day Sideline Chant Division. The CCHS varsity and junior varsity squads enjoyed a week packed full of fun and excitement at UCA Cheer Camp in College Stationfrom June 9-June 12th. The 13-member varsity squad which has six new members this year was awarded top-rated blue ribbons during both the Cheer Evaluation  and Extreme Routine Evaluation. The 10-member junior varsity squad, comprised of nine new members, was awarded a trophy for Most Improved JV Squad. “It was very fun and engaging.There were lots of activities that boosted spirit and team bonding,” Sophomore Carleigh Ross, a member  of the varsity cheer squad said.“The UCA staff personally connected with each and every team member and it made sure to create the best experience possible, which was beyond what I expected.” UCA tailors instruction to each team’s skill level improving their ability to master the fundamentals and improve team building skills including learning game day planning, safety training, partner stunts, private coaching, dances and more. CCHS Senior Camelia Adamsand Juniors Kamryn Mayberry and Stasha Williamson were chosen as All-American Cheerleaders trying out in front of the entire camp of more than 500 cheerleaders. Adams, Mayberry and Williamson were awarded a medal and patch for their letter jackets as well as the opportunity to participate in the New Year’s Day Parade in London, England. Also, Sparkles Mascot Tamica Madden was one of only five mascots chosen as All-American Mascot at camp performing  an original  skit. She was awarded amedal, a patch for her letter jacket and has a performance opportunity at Disney World. “Camp brought everyone together and there was a sense of being united,” Rosssaid. “Instead of individual teams, we were all coming together to cheer as one large group and that was definitely a great experience