Paris’ Sky Athletics Cheerleading and Tumbling teams returned from Fun Cheer Nationals held in San Antonio this past weekend as National Champions.
“Taking on Nationals for the first year with two brand new teams has been a wild ride, but here we are, celebrating five National Championships,” said an excited Skyler Burchinal, owner of the local gym.
The local teams were overjoyed at the success seen at the recent national competition, especially considering they were in their inaugural year of competition.
Coach Amanda Jackson said that the gym took 23 athletes to their first competition and came home big winners.
“Fun Cheer caters to the smaller programs that have less than 75 athletes. Our girls competed with over 30 other companies and came out with some great accomplishments,” said Jackson.
“These girls have started from the bottom, but have achieved so much. During this entire season, our two teams combined have received only two deductions. Our girls hit 8 out of 10 zero deduction routines this entire season at competitions,” boasted Burchinal of his student’s success.
Amongst the team competition, Sky Athletics also gave prominent mention to their six individuals who performed twice on Feb. 29.
Between the team and individual events, Jackson said that a majority of their athletes had never competed before, and to come away with more than just experience was a testament to their hard work and dedication.
“Our girls practiced twice a week over the month of February in preparation,” she said. “They would come into the gym after school and other activities then put in around 1-2 hours of practice.”
“They were tired, but they brought the energy, sass, and talent to the Individual Championship,” Burchinal said. “Both teams performed their hearts out this weekend. With new music being sprung on both teams this week to two of our athletes fighting sickness this weekend, we couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated group of girls.”
After a perfect day one routine and a minor mistake during day two, the Sky Athletics Vipers team bounced back and stole the show bringing home the National title by .25 points.
“We are so proud of our Vipers and how they kept up their energy during the remainder of their routine,” he said.
Overjoyed parents, coaches, and athletes were happy to be ending their first season on Sunday with a National Championships and a Level Grand National Champion.
Sky Athletics is not only a competition gym, but they also offer regular tumbling classes throughout the year. For anyone looking to join the competition teams, try-outs are on Mar. 15.
“We are already looking forward to the next season, which will start in April,” said Jackson.
To get information on how to join Sky Athletics and Tumbling, you can contact them through their Facebook page or call (903) 249-1293.
Results:
National Champions
Mini Vipers
Junior Venom
Level Grand Champions
Junior Venom
National Duo Champions
Alyvia Burchinal and Brynlee Schoggins
Individual National Champions
Addisyn Burchinal
Kelsey Jackson
Second place individual finisher
Kylee Pry
Third place individual finisher
Gabby Barbre
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