MEDICINE HAT, AB — Now in its third year, Ultimate Cheer Fusion is setting its sights on further success.
The local cheerleading club has started its new season recently, and they’ve seen a jump in numbers once again.
About 25 of the students are new to cheerleading, while many of the members are returning athletes.
While the club runs several teams, the senior team is one to keep an eye on.
“They’re staying as a level 2 team, so they’re not going to move up quite yet this year, but we’re hoping in the near future that they can definitely move up,” said coach Jenna Jelinski
“We also want to be strong and a competitor, so we’re keeping them at a Level 2 to not perfect, but be the best that they can be at that level before we move them up.”
Jelinski says the senior team has a busy season of local competitions coming up, and also have the hopes of competing at international competitions in Vancouver and Las Vegas this season.
The senior team is made up of students aged 10-18 years old, among them Olivia Kiiskila. The 10-year-old competes as a Level 3 individually, and is also a flyer for the senior team.
She says teamwork is key for Ultimate Cheer Fusion as they go through the season.
“You have to work together, and it’s a team sport, which means you have to cheer each other on at the same time,” she said.
Kiiskila adds as an individual cheerleader, there’s also a lot of pressure.
“As an individual, you stand out there and do your own thing,” she said. “You can’t, like, look at anyone else if you forget something. The spotlight’s on you.”
The club is hosting several fundraisers to help the seniors with the travel to international competitions, including a steak night at Cheers Pub. More information can be found at the Ultimate Cheer Fusion Facebook page.
