Cheerleaders qualify for world finals in Florida

A team of junior cheerleaders have qualified to compete in the Cheerleader World Championships in America in 2027.

The South Coast Waves, based in Washford, in west Somerset, have qualified for the finals in Florida after winning several categories at a regional event in Cardiff.

Becky Smith, the Head Coach told BBC Radio Somerset: "We train in a very small village hall and hit the roof when we jump up and practice!

"I'm so proud of all the team, all teams hit zero in their scores and there were no mistakes which is rare. We've never travelled abroad with them before so it will be a massive experience."

The cheerleading club based near Watchet started the club in 2017 and all coaches are volunteers.

Smith said they started up the club as 'a bit of fun' for the children in the area and now have 70 members.

She continued: "Lifting each other and catching each other is tough and hard to learn

"We start looking at each person's ability and their level. We fit the music to the routine.

"Normally our competitions in the UK have one hall, this competition has eight halls. It's a much bigger scale, it's going to be crazy."

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