Cheerleaders lauded at camp

Members of the Whitehall Cheerleading squad earned some significant praise at a cheerleading camp held last month in Elmira.

The squad had 13 girls who were nominated for All-American status at the camp. Each girl was evaluated on their technique, jumping, tumbling, spirit and enthusiasm.

The nominees were: Mackenzie Fiorini, Malia DeLorme, Brooke Paddock, Madison Winters, Brooke Younger, Rachel Aubin, Samantha Baldwin, Emaly Bessette, Cariana Jones, Alexis O’Dell, Taylor Rozell, Taryn Tracy and Samantha Kasuba.

The varsity team was recognized for its “technical excellence” in motions and received the Herkie Award, which represents leadership, teamwork and sportsmanship. They were also named the camp’s most improved squad.

In addition, both the junior varsity and varsity squads brought home a spirit stick and each participated in the top-team and champion chant divisions.

All the cheerleaders will perform during halftime of every Whitehall football game this fall. Fans will have their first chance to see the squad on Sept. 6 when Whitehall’s varsity football team takes on Hoosic Valley in its season opener.