Curro Aurora cheerleaders crowned SAMCA National Champions once again
16 October 2024Curro Aurora Primary School cheerleaders have once again proven their skill by defending their titles at the 2024 SAMCA National Championship. Both the All-Stars Co-Ed Team and the Stardust All-Girls Team capped off a remarkable season in September, being crowned national champions for the second consecutive year. This victory follows their earlier success at the Provincial Championship, completing an undefeated season filled with dedication.
A season of growth
From the outset of the 2024 cheerleading season, Curro Aurora’s teams approached every competition with enthusiasm and drive. Their success didn’t come easily, as Sarah Kabuya, the cheerleading coach, explained: ‘Winning all their respective school cheer competitions and the Provincial Championship required many long hours of weekly practice. Our cheerleaders have experienced a term of ups and downs, but their hard work and dedication, along with the support from teachers and coaches, has paid off.’
Balancing academics, sports, and cheerleading can be challenging, but the cheerleaders demonstrated resilience throughout the season. Even when faced with injuries, their commitment to the team remained unaffected. ‘Their decision to attend practices, observe, and assist their teammates until they were fully recovered showed their sportsmanship and determination,’ Kabuya added.
Behind the success
The journey to the SAMCA Nationals involved months of preparation and the introduction of new skills and routines. ‘The extensive training that began in Term 1, combined with the enthusiasm of our cheerleaders to master new skills, significantly contributed to their success this year,’ said Kabuya. The effort of the cheerleaders, combined with the guidance of their coaches, was instrumental in securing the victories at both Provincial and National levels.
Kabuya emphasised the important role of the coaches: ‘The coaches' unwavering belief in our cheerleaders, combined with their ability to nurture talent and identify key skills, has been invaluable to the team's success.’
The role of support
Parental support also played a critical role in the success of both teams. From adjusting schedules to attending competitions, the involvement of the cheerleaders' families made a significant impact. ‘Many parents went above and beyond, adjusting pick-up schedules, attending competitions, and even assisting with uniforms and hair,’ Kabuya noted. Parents also supported financially, with some even choosing to travel to Cape Town for Nationals.
Looking forward to 2025
With the 2024 season now behind them, the focus shifts to 2025. Curro Aurora aims to continue its winning streak by incorporating more advanced stunts and encouraging greater participation from boys. ‘Our goal for 2025 is to enhance the skills of our cheerleaders and retain our titles at both the Provincial and National levels,’ Kabuya shared.
The success of the cheerleading programme has also sparked increased interest among learners. More learners are eager to join, and many achieved Provincial colours this year, marking a significant milestone for the cheerleading programme at Curro Aurora.