A GROUP of northern suburbs cheerleaders are flipping the downward trend of teenage girls doing physical activity and it could take them overseas.
West Coast Fury teams Surge and Super Nova will travel to the US in May to compete in the Varsity All Star international cheerleading competition at Disney World in Orlando.
It is the first time the offer has been extended to Australian cheerleaders, with only 300 invitations awarded worldwide.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWThe teams have 34 girls aged between 10 and 18, who have been training twice a week with coaches Peta Parker, Christina Dimopoulos and Artemis Dimopoulos at the Wangara gym.
Last year, they placed top of each competition they attended which led to an invitation to the summit in Florida.
“Never did we expect such success in only our second year of competition” Mrs Parker said.
“It is the result of incredible commitment and dedication of all involved including the athletes, their families and coaches.
“They are a very special group of girls who all work hard for one another as a team.
“They fuel their passion every time they walk into the gym.”
Parent Pam Menzies said cheerleading was one of the fastest growing sport for girls in Australia.
“It is an exciting, physically demanding sport that combines gymnastics tumbling, lifts and stunts,” she said.
“It is the ultimate team sport, where each athlete plays a vital role in the overall team success.
“Competing allows the athletes the opportunity to showcase superior technical athleticism with creative presentations.”
Mrs Menzies said competitions fuelled the cheerleaders’ passion for the sport and helped build their self-esteem and confidence.
She is part of a fundraising committee that has been approaching the government and business community for sponsorships and donations to help get the teams to the US.
“Obtaining the finances to enable the girls to compete in this prestigious event has been difficult,” Mrs Menzies said.
“The team is conducting a number of fundraising events including a quiz night on April 7 at the Alexander Heights Community Centre.
“The West Coast Fury SUMMIT Tour Team is looking for support in the form of sponsorship or donations of prizes that can be auctioned at their fundraising event.”
To support the teams’ US tour, email menzies1980@bigpond.com.
MORE: Life sentences for Aaron Pajich-Sweetman murderers Lilley and Lenon
MORE: Perth teacher allegedly raped student in mid-to-late 1990s
MORE: Full list: cars affected in mass recall of deadly airbags