Cheers for first birthday

Laura and Lucy House, Sienna Michael and Bonnie Devlin cheer as Sarah Maclure performs some moves. Picture: BLAIR THOMSON

THE first local cheerleading squad is set to celebrate its first birthday.

The Bandettes support the Albury Wodonga Bandits basketball team during their home games, with interested people encouraged to try out for the dance group.

“We’re wanting to recruit for the 2012 season,” Bandettes coach Chantelle Hutchins said.

“Last year we had a lot of interest from younger people so we’re opening it up to create a junior squad.

“We’re looking for anyone with dance or gymnastic experience and because they cheer a lot, we’re also looking for people with enthusiasm.”

An ability to perform handstands, cartwheels, flips and somersaults is handy.

“It requires fitness,” Ms Hutchins said.

“They cheer throughout the game and perform at half-time.

“It improves the atmosphere in the stadium and gives the guys in the team a lift.”

Cheerleading is commonly associated with American high schools.

But the sport has grown in popularity in Australia since Bring It On was released in 2000.

“A lot of people refer back to that movie as boosting the popularity of cheerleading,” Ms Hutchins said.

“I think it’s definitely increasing in popularity.”

Seventeen-year-old team member Laura House said performers needed to be switched on to pull off their dance routine.

“Some of the moves are quite scary and you hope that you land them,” she said.

“I like the team work and the different dance styles we do and it’s great to perform in front of the basketball crowds.”

Auditions for the junior and senior Bandettes squads will be held on Monday, 23 January from 7pm.

“They’re held at the Hume Dance School in Wagga Road and we’d encourage both males and females to apply,” Ms Hutchins said.

“The juniors squad is aged between nine to 14 and the seniors are 14 plus and everyone is welcome to attend.

“It’s really good fun and the girls all get along really well and support each other.”

For more information call Ms Hutchins on 0402 202 321.

By BLAIR THOMSON

Short URL: http://www.awnw.com.au/?p=12029

Posted by admin on Jan 19 2012. Filed under Local News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry