Wilmington Cheerleaders Do It Again

It’s no secret that Wilmington’s Pop Warner Cheer Program has had its share of success over the years.  Having sent their teams to nationals every year since 1999, Wilmington is well known for consistent, talented cheer teams. The “A” level team alone boasts two No. 1 wins, 2005 and 2006 along with two second place titles, 2008 and 2009.

This year, once again, Wilmington’s cheerleaders returned from the National Pop Warner Cheer and Dance Championships at ESPN's Wide World of Sports with a first place title. Officially, they are the the reigning champs of National Competition.

So, what made this group of girls so successful? Well, the answer is a lot simpler that you think. 

“Hard work and dedication make these girls successful,” said Pop Warner President Deb Smith without hesitation. “They start their official practices August 1 and continue until the last competitions are over for the year.”

For this year’s Wildcat team the biggest challenge was facing the season with only two returning cheerleaders. Almost all of the 2010 team had graduated out of the program and, while the new team was filled with talented cheerleaders, they were not experienced competing at this level. 

“These young ladies worked hard to come together as a team,” said Smith. “They gave it their all for the entire season and it paid off in Florida.”

Of course, the cheerleaders received plenty of support on their road to Disney.  As Wilmington Pop Warner Cheer Director Janine Hersom pointed out, there are a lot of people involved who help make the team a success.

“We have some of the best, most dedicated coaches out there,” said Hersom. “Without the coaching staff and the incredible level of support we get from the Pop Warner parents none of this would be possible.”

Over the years the Wilmington community has come together to support the Pop Warner Program and this year was no exception. Needless to say, the trip to Florida is an expensive one and Pop Warner relies heavily on fundraisers to make it happen.

“I want to thank the town of Wilmington for its generous support this year,” said Smith. “The local community helped to make this trip happen.”

In addition to their first place title Wilmington’s “A” team cheerleaders also earned an invitation to represent New England Pop Warner in a televised competition run by Cheer Jamz. The event is scheduled to for January 21 at Temple University in Philadelphia. As of now Wilmington Pop Warner's plans remain up in the air.

“Unfortunately, due to the expense of going, we are not yet certain if we will be able to attend,” said Smith.

For now the Wilmington’s “A” team cheerleaders are home, preparing for the holidays and looking back proudly on another successful season.