SOMERS, N.Y. - On Nov. 12, the auditorium was filled for Somers Cheerleader Showcase Community Night, and the decibel levels rose to the top.
But this occasion was reserved for the athletes who are in charge of leading the cheers.
“All our Somers cheerleaders come and perform for their friends and family,” explained Varsity Cheerleading Assistant Coach Taylor LaRusso.
8,10,12, 14 and the varsity, the uplift went across the board.
“Everyone got to see the strong bond on a night that builds a bridge between the youth and high school cheer,” the coach clarified.
A traverse that Anna Puerto takes pride in.
“I used to do youth cheerleading. Now, I get to help them. It’s very special to me,” said the varsity cheerleader.
Taking part in something bigger than herself, the impact filters down, and D12 Cheerleader Gemma Pitkin reinforces the point. Since one person affects all, said the 11-year-old, “When you perform together, a strong bond is created.”
Up a level at D14, the team’s bid to the Nationals in Orlando verifies the synergy. Then on high, the flyer knows better than anyone.
“You have to stay tight,” Emma Quinones assured.
The results speak for themself when it comes to her ascent and safe landing. “I don’t get nervous,” she revealed.
At the same time, Delia Eagleton’s efforts below go a long way to building that confidence. A back spot, her place on the floor actually works on the fly.
“You have to act quick when they are in the air, because anything could happen,” said the Tusker.
If that does mean a fall, the flyer simply resets the itinerary.
“They get back up,” said Caroline Papa, who is a base and a tumbler.
It’s the grounded part, though, that can’t be overlooked, according to Lyla Guadio. “If I have a stressful day at school, I come to cheer, and I don’t feel stress anymore,” she explained.
That means the smiles that cheerleaders sport is never forced. “It shows you’re having fun, and if you’re having fun, you know you’re doing something you love,” said Ila Shoenberg.
The dance part then doubles down the sentiment. Topping off each routine, successful maneuvers feed into the curtain call, according to Shoenberg.
“All the energy we put in throughout and all the stunts, everything comes together at the end,” she beamed.
Either way, back spot Britton Bassi still towers above, and her teammates definitely appreciate her height. “It’s a lot easier for me to keep up the base - especially when it’s falling,” said Bassi. “I can grab higher, and my height helps me bring the stunt back together.”
She prefers the competition to the games, but seeing the varsity on Friday nights, still has her aiming high. “The varsity inspires me the way they perform,” she said. “I want to be like that.”
Not bad now, the community was able to concur when the night was over. “The town saw some amazing talent,” concluded Coach Jackie Cavuoto.
Not the only accomplished team, D10 took home 2nd place at the Big East Regional Championship and D12 locked down 1st place at the Regionals.
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