Two of our Level 3 Sports Coaching students Alania Ebanks and Isabella Carrick and one of our A level students Amelie Daykin are on cloud nine after becoming Cheerleading World Championship with their team, South Tyneside Jets.
We caught up with Alania after she returned from the competition in Florida, to hear what becoming world champion means to her.
What did you get up to on your trip to Florida?
We trained for two days when we got there and then took part in something called ‘Show Off’s’. It’s where all the teams come together to show off their stunts, it was really fun and inspiring to see everyone’s skills. After that, we competed and we had no deductions, meaning we actually won on Day One! That meant we got a bracelet to move into the finals. Only four teams made it through and on Day Two, we competed again and won!
How long had you been training for the Championships?
We trained from August last year to make sure we were prepared with five-hour sessions every Saturday, two hours on Tuesdays and sometimes an hour and a half every other Thursday.
Was it hard fitting all that in around college?
It’s manageable if you’re only on one team. But I’m on two teams and I coach, so it can definitely get intense but I’ve really enjoyed being able to experience both teams, I’ve learnt a lot.
You coach as well?
Yes, I help coach the younger cheerleaders too which helps me put into practice everything I’ve been learning at college.
What was your favourite part of the Florida trip?
The parks especially Universal. That was definitely a highlight!
And what was the standout moment?
Winning the Championships – we went just hoping to finish in the top three and everything just came together better than we expected.
How does it feel to say you’re a World Champion?
It feels really good but it’s kind of surreal! I’m still at college and now I can say I’m a world champion.
Do you have a favourite part of the routine?
Either the first stunt I do or the tumbling and jumps section. Those are definitely my favourite parts.
Do you have more competitions coming up this year?
We’ve got one in Glasgow and another at the start of July. Then that’s it for this season.
When does the next season start? Will you be heading back to Florida?
The new season starts after the summer, but I don’t think my team will be going back to Florida next year. So, it really was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What’s next for you—more coaching?
Definitely. I’m currently on Galaxy, the Level 1 team that won, and I’m also on a Level 4 team. Next season, I’ll be moving up to Level 5. I’m in my first year at college so not thinking about university yet but just enjoying being able to do what I love.
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