Audrey Williams
Online Sports Editor
Senior cheer captain Noelle Parker has shown that cheerleading can take her not only to Waller Stadium and Fisher Gym, but all the way to London.
Over the summer, Mira Costa’s cheer team spent a week at the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) summer clinic. While at the camp, Parker and her fellow seniors Ashley Markel, Rose Darcy and 300 other cheerleaders were chosen from Costa’s cheer squad to try out for the opportunity to perform at London’s New Year’s Parade.
“The camp allowed us to get a head start on our training for the year,” Parker said. “It was good for team bonding and for providing us with opportunities.”
The trio had to learn a dance, a cheer and show a few jumps. A panel of judges from UCA would be watching. By the end of the camp, Parker, Markel and and Darcy were chosen out of those who tried out for the opportunity to cheer in the parade.
“The parade is like the Macy’s Day Parade we have here in New York City on Thanksgiving,” Parker said. “It is a big deal and I’m so grateful to have been chosen.”
Parker was ultimately the only cheerleader from Costa to accept the invitation. By New Year’s Day, she will be in London performing alongside with many other cheerleaders from the United States. However, before she gets perform in London, Parker must learn the routine through a video emailed to her.
“I’m excited just to be able to travel and explore the city,” Parker said. “I’m excited to meet a bunch of cheerleaders from around the country.”
Though Parker has spent around a decade cheering, she is not sure if it is a career she wants to pursue beyond high school. However she is grateful for the experiences and opportunities cheer has given her over the years.
“I think it’s something I’ll look back on when I’m older,” Parker said. “I’ll always think of it as one of the most fun parts of my life.”
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