Published: August 04, 2009 10:07 am      

Reason to Cheer

Rattler cheerleaders and mascot bring home awards from summer competitions

San Marcos — The San Marcos High School Striking Rattler cheerleaders and mascot attended the Universal Cheerleading Association cheerleader and mascot camp hosted by Texas State University-San Marcos, learning new material including sidelines, cheers, chants, dances and new stunts.

They also learned how to motivate crowds and how to develop motivational skills.

According to cheer sponsor Vicky Moreno, the cheerleaders had the opportunity to be evaluated and receive award ribbons. Following evaluations in each area, the Rattler cheerleaders earned a Superior ribbon “each and every time.”

“Earning superior ribbons for each task earned the squad a Superior trophy at the awards ceremony,” Moreno said.

Junior James Wheatly, Rattler mascot, also earned a Trophy of Excellence at the UCA camp.

Each cheerleading squad had the opportunity to nominate up to six members of their team to try-out for the prestigious Universal Cheerleading Association All-American Cheerleader award. Two Rattler cheerleaders received the UCA-All American Cheerleader award: senior caption Angela Mendoza and junior co-caption Aubrey Rodriguez. Each is invited to attend the London Varsity Tour 2010 on New Year's Day in London, England where the UCA-All Americans will perform during what is billed as the World's Greatest Parade.

Meanwhile, the SMHS Junior Varsity cheerleaders attended the Elite private cheerleading camp where they earned an Award of Excellence ribbon in recognition of the squad's Outstanding Effort and Performance in All Areas of Cheerleading. Each member had the chance to compete for the Elite All-American Cheerleader title. Six of the SMHS Junior Varsity cheerleaders were chosen for as Elite All-American Cheerleaders: junior Jaime Rodriguez and freshmen Elena Zavala, Amanda Barrientos, Naomi Godina, Amanda Saucedo and Tess Thomson. They each received a Certificate of Excellence, a signature All-American emblem patch, and an invitation to perform at a Bowl game in Orlando, Fla.

• From Iris Campbell, San Marcos CISD Public Information Officer