‘Claws’ Comes Out

While hover boards and the latest smart phone topped the Christmas wish lists of most teenage girls, a trip to perform at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida is all that Cali Jernigan has been focused on for months.

 

The S. C. Lee Junior High eighth grader has been her school’s mascot, Claws, for the last two years. At a National Cheer Association camp this summer, Jernigan was selected as an All-American Mascot, an honor given to less than a handful of mascots who compete among hundreds. As a result, Jernigan will perform at the Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Day. Cheer coach Shannon Thompson said inside the mascot uniform is an incredible student.

 

“Cali Jernigan is one of the most amazing young ladies I know. She’s the most shy and polite young lady when you see her walking the halls, enjoying lunch with friends or being a teacher’s aide. Then all of a sudden, she puts on her ‘Claws’ uniform and a whole new person appears,” Thompson said. “She is funny, outgoing and just completely mascot crazy. Cali has brought new life to the S. C. Lee mascot. I’m so proud of this young lady and wish her all the luck at the Citrus Bowl. (This honor was) well-earned and much deserved.”