For the first time in five years cheerleader sponsor Jordan Pritchett escorted the cheerleaders to the UCA (Universal Cheerleaders Association) cheerleading camp at UAB June 12-15.
    “I feel that camp was very beneficial because the squad learned new cheers, chants and dances,” Pritchett said.  “It was a good team building experience.”
    In addition to learning chants, cheers and dances, the cheerleaders also had stunt practice. They also participated in workshops on team leadership, team building and pep rally organization.
    The squad placed second in the home pom competition with a dance they learned over the summer.
    “I enjoyed learning the dance,” junior Emily Colley said.  “It was really rewarding when we placed because we worked hours upon hours on it.”
    The girls also placed third in the cheer competition and won the most traditional squad award.
    “The most traditional squad award is very special to MHS,” Pritchett said.  “It shows that while we are not a competitive cheerleading squad, we are traditional in that we use the crowd leading tools such as signs and megaphones to support our team. We are a true high school cheerleading squad.”
    This year’s squad includes freshmen Emma Jones, Brooke Douglas, Destyni Peoples and Linzee Boothe; sophomores Myranda Willis, Olivia Lowrey, Jill Brantley and Kelsey Sanders; juniors Alli Burr and Emily Colley; and seniors Alyssa Dennis, Amanda Draper and Jamesia Blue.
    “I really do enjoy being on the MHS cheerleading squad,” Brantley said.  “It is my second year cheering for the high school, and it keeps getting better. I love being with my friends doing what we do best.
    The senior cheerleaders competed for and were named All-American Cheerleaders. They now have the opportunity to visit London to dance in various parades and perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
    “This was an exciting competition,” Blue said.  “I was so shocked and glad to be named an All-American because it is such an honor.”