Edgewood Eagles Cheerleaders Finish First at NE Regionals -- Five Times Over

Five Edgewood Eagles cheerleading squads took to the mat at the 2014 New England Pop Warner Regional Championship earlier this month, each hoping to place well in their divisions, and maybe, take home first place.

Thanks to hard work, lots of practice, skill and talent, they did. All of them.

“What an incredible week, I couldn’t be more proud of these kids,” said Lori Scichilone Sweeney, cheer coordinator. “The staff and I have created a “Dynasty” and we have every right to call it that.”

The girls and boys in each division -- Jr. Peewee (ages 9-10), Peewee (11-12), Jr. Midget (11-13), Midget Co-ed level 2 and Midget Co-ed level 3 (11-15) dominated during the compition and with the first-place wins, they earned the right to compete at the National Pop Warner Championship in Disney World this December.

On top of it all is the fact the Mitey Mite cheerleaders, who are between 7- and 8-years-old, were also picked to participate in an exhibition for non-competitive cheerleaders at Disney World, too.

“They dazzled the audience with their big spirit and impressive stunting skills!” Sweeney said.

The recent victories mark the fifth consecutive year that the Edgewood Eagles have sent teams to the national championships.

“Each year we have placed and climbed up the winner’s bracket, capturing 5 national championships to date. The new accomplishment this year is that every single team is going, that is a first for Edgewood,” Sweeney said. “Our program has grown each year, obtaining our highest numbers yet and one of the biggest in New England at 210 cheerleaders. That says a lot for the non-profit organization and coaching staff. These coaches volunteer their time to develop skills within these children. But not only cheer skills, they also instill life-long lessons, such as teamwork, dedication, integrity and sportsmanship.”

After all the hugs and celebrations, it’s time for yet more hard work. The teams have a lot of practice to get ready for nationals. They also have to raise the money to make it to Disney World.

With five teams and so many children, the price tag is about $100,000. The children hav been raising money throughout the season but are still short on their goal.

Any donations would be appreciated.

Please make checks out to Edgewood Eagles Cheer Travel Fund and mailed to Bank of Rhode Island, c/o Edgewood Eagles, 1047 Park Ave, Cranston RI, 02920. Please visit their website at EdgewoodEagles.org for further information.