The Oxford Varsity Competitive Cheer team is ready to take things up a notch this season – which includes hosting for the first time a Competitive Cheer Coaches Association’s Tournament. The event is set for this Saturday, Dec. 13, with Round 1 beginning at 10 a.m.
“This is our first time doing this so I’m excited,” said Coach Kristy Gibson-Marshall. “This organization gives away a lot of money in scholarships at the end of every season.”
“This weekend will be the first time we do a routine so this won’t be anything polished,” she added. “It will definitely be a first of the season show.”
Another first for the cheering Lady Cats will be facing league competition.
“We’re really looking forward to doing league competition for the first time in six years,” said Marshall. “We’re excited about putting that together.”
The Oxford Cheerleaders will be focusing this season on the small details of their skills – items that weren’t perfected last season. Even though the team is lacking some techniques, such as back tucks and aerials, they do have some acrobatic moves, such as back hand springs and back walkovers, to clean.
“It’s going to be a growth year, we’re definitely going to grow a ton,” said Marshall. “We’re just going to take it one day at a time.”
Seniors Aubrey Stalnaker, Amy Johnson and Megan Davis are just some of the leadership available to this year’s squad.
“We’re just going to go out this season and do the best we can,” said Johnson. “And have some fun while doing it.”
“One of our goals is to progress throughout the season,” explained Davis.
“And work together as a team,” added Stalnaker.
So what makes the Oxford Varsity Competitive Cheer team what it is – in three words from the coach: camaraderie, strength and heart.
“I have 12 seniors this year and having them be successful is really important to me,” said Marshall.