2-4-6-8 who do we appreciate...

 

Cheerleading is set to make a big touchdown in Montgomeryshire with the introduction of new classes which are open to all, and the co-ordinator behind it reckons she will be able to knock a decent troupe into shape too!

 

At 19, Vicki Upson (below) is an established stunt cheerleader and a second year sports management student at the University of Glamorgan. She has excelled in her passion for cheerleading and ‘captains’ the University of Glamorgan Coyote All-girl dance team and is also a member of its stunt team.

 

Now she hopes the craze will take a grip locally when the weekly classes are launched in Newtown in March.

 

“Stunt cheerleading is a very new sport in Powys but it is very common within universities all over the country and south Wales,” said Vicki, who hails from Caersws.

 

“Jabawok Cheer & Dance is based in Mid-Wales covering the areas of Newtown, Llanidloes, Welshpool, Llanfair Caerinion and any other neighbouring towns and villages. Cheerleading is a physical activity, sometimes a competitive sport, based on routines containing tumbling, dance, and jumps and stunting, these are used at sports events and to participate in competitions.”

 

Vicki points out that no prior experience is necessary but anyone interested needs to sign a disclaimer (by parents if under 16) and notify coaches of any previous injuries.

 

“You do not need any previous experience in cheerleading, dance or gymnastics, as each member will all be taught through the basic skills and techniques to make a successful stunt and routine.

 

“The sessions will be run by qualified staff who are able to teach all abilities so please don’t feel intimidated if you are new to all this. All the team require is enthusiasm and full commitment!”

 

Members can give it a try through the six-week trial period when a pay-per-session policy is used, and following this, fee payments will change to monthly or per term.

 

Team training begins on March 4 (10am-12) for all ages. This session includes dancing, stunting and tumbling. Sessions cost £2.50 with the opening session just £1.

 

Tumbling training begins the following day (6-7pm) when everybody is again welcome. Sessions cost £1.50 with the introductory opening session just £1 also.

 

The sessions will take place at the KiK free Running gym, Newtown (5A Grooms Enterprise Park - opposite Evans Windows, and just off McDonalds roundabout).

 

For more information join the Jabawok Cheer Squad  on Facebook or text 07594734733.