Waterford District High School’s cheerleader squad is glowing after their win at Young Canada Day with three-year veterans Grace, Taylor, and Pluto leading the charge. This isn’t the first cheerleading win for Waterford. The team previously won at the fair in 2019, but more recently they also took home the 1st Annual Norfolk Invitational title, hosted by Simcoe Composite School and organized by Alison High, Principal at Valley Heights Secondary in March. (You can read more about that tournament here.)
Grace explains the draw of cheerleading and what she enjoys most.
Pluto was challenged by Taylor to join the team in Grade 9, and both said they have no regrets. Taylor also feels very close to her team members.
The team prides itself on its tight-knit bond and welcoming atmosphere. Everyone is welcome in cheerleading and these veterans said one of the biggest misconceptions when recruiting for the team is flexibility.
Competitions score a number of elements from the cheer itself, the crowd call backs, costumes, stunts and routine creativity. While at Young Canada Day the coaches of all teams could be heard constantly calling out “smile, smile, big smiles”. Pluto and Grace let us know what that’s all about.
Young Canada Day at the Fair is a huge celebration of school spirit and pride, and all teams put so much work into their routines. The Wolves had this to say about how they felt going into the competition.
The trio represent their team and their school incredibly well. Grace, Taylor, and Pluto are bright and well spoken, so it was no surprise when they wanted to give thanks to the many that got the team here.
Recruitment for the 2024-2025 season is already underway, with tryouts on the 21st, as the team hopes to grow and compete at the 2nd Annual Norfolk Invitational in March and potentially qualify for OFSAA.
Written by Jeremy Hall