Cheerleaders go back to school for lessons with a difference
THE Scottish Claymores cheerleading squad has joined forces with Glasgow City Council to offer cheerleading as an exciting alternative to traditional PE classes in Glasgow schools
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The scheme has been funded for three years by an award from the Lotteries New Opportunities Fund and participating schools will be visited for two hours every week over an eight week period by a member of the Claymores cheerleading squad.
In addition to learning dance skills, each school will have the opportunity to visit a dance studio and will be advised by a fitness professional on overall fitness and nutrition.
An inter-schools cheerleading competition, organised by the Claymores, will also be offered as part of the programme, with finals to be held in May - and the winners will get the chance to dance on the hallowed Hampden turf at a Claymores game during the 2004 NFL Europe League season.
Claymores cheerleading manager DEBBIE JACKSON said: "We are really excited to be involved in this scheme and we hope our classes will increase fitness, encourage a healthy lifestyle, create confidence and encourage long-term participation and interest in the sport of cheerleading.
"Until now, cheerleading has not be part of PE classes as we traditionally recognise them, but they're a great workout and fantastic at developing teambuilding skills. Cheerleading really catches the imagination and engages the interest of the girls involved. They could even become the Claymores cheerleaders of the future."
Councillor JOHN LYNCH, convenor of Glasgow City Council's's Culture and Leisure Services, said: "This is a great opportunity for young girls to learn a new and exciting skill. As well as being a great way to keep fit, it could very well encourage a future interest in the field of cheerleading."
02 Dec, 03 | 11:09 am