A young cheerleader from Swindon is preparing to take to the European stage after being selected to compete at this year’s Future Cheer European Championships in Barcelona.
Daisy, 13, a pupil at Lawn Manor Academy and member of Swindon Lightning Cheerleading Club, will travel to Spain later this month alongside 17 teammates to perform their routine, Aurora, at the two-day competition on 30 and 31 May.
The event will bring together teams from across the UK and Europe, marking one of Daisy’s biggest competitions to date after more than a decade involved in the sport.
“I love being part of the team at cheer and that I’ve made lots of friends doing it,” she said.
“I train every day and really enjoy learning new skills and performing with the squad.”
Her progress through competitive cheerleading has been swift. Having competed at Level 1 last season, Daisy now performs at Level 4, where routines include advanced tumbling, stunts, dance and aerial skills.
Earlier this year she also represented Swindon Lightning at an international competition in Germany, where the team finished fifth overall.
Closer to home, Daisy recently performed during half-time entertainment at Swindon Town Football Club.
Alongside competing, she has also begun coaching younger cheerleaders after recently completing a coaching course.
At the Showdown Elite competition in Great Malvern, Daisy coached a junior team made up largely of under-14s, helping guide them to first place in their category before they went on to secure the overall Grand Champs title for the event.
“I really enjoy coaching and helping younger cheerleaders do well and enjoy themselves,” she said.
“It’s amazing seeing them improve and have fun.”
Daisy’s own team also claimed first place in their division at the same competition using the Aurora routine they will now take to Barcelona.
Lawn Manor Academy headteacher Russell Langdown praised Daisy’s achievements both as an athlete and mentor.
“We are incredibly proud of Daisy and everything she has achieved through her dedication, determination and hard work,” he said.
“It is especially inspiring to see Daisy not only succeeding in something she loves, but also encouraging and coaching younger cheerleaders to develop their confidence and skills.”
He added: “We wish Daisy and the entire Swindon Lightning squad the very best of luck as they travel to Barcelona to compete in the Future Cheer European Championships.”
Lawn Manor Academy is part of the Ascend Learning Trust.
