The Belleville Jr. Bucs cheerleaders competed in its first competition of the season Sunday, Nov. 7, at Hackettstown High School. The squad of 15 athletes are all in the seventh- and eighth-grades and are a recreation team.
Most are new to the sport.
Coordinator Mia Torres says after working with them since August, it was clear the squad deserved a chance to compete.
“Head coaches Maria DelValle and Kenya Pringle have put together an incredibly entertaining routine packed with energy, attitude and a difficulty level that they should be so proud of,” Torres says. “As coordinator of the program, I am thrilled to see how much progress they have made in such a short period of time. Most competitive teams practice all year long to deliver a two-minute and 30-second routine. Our girls did that in three months.”
The “A Squad” walked out onto the mat confident and strong and performed a routine that left the crowd roaring. They were awarded the “Division Champion” title.
Laila Guzman represented Belleville in a “Jump Off” and “Tumble Off” competition during awards, securing the win for Belleville in both contests.
Athletes pictured include Giuliana Acosta, Ava Acuna, Sabrina Alejandro, Lauren Falsetta, Myanni Belizaire, Jennalyn Concepcion, Brianna Coss, Laila Guzman, Isabella DiPalma, Sofia Meza, Laila Polanco, Dayanara Rivadeneira, Charlotte Rodriguez, Annabella Simoes and Neena Torres.
The “A Squad” will be training and conditioning for the next two weeks in preparation to head to Cherry Hill High School for their final competition of the season Saturday, Nov. 20.
