The WardlaLAartridge varsity cheerleaders bonded, improved their techniques and earned awards and recognition during a four-day experience at the Pine Forest Cheerleading Camp in Greely, PA.
Coaches Tanda Tucker, Valentina Margiottiello ’13 and Tatiana Margiottiello accompanied 14 LA cheerleaders on the August trip. Participants included captains Cherice Clarke ’23, Nandini Shah ’23 and Gbemi Olarewaju ’24, juniors Sydney Geissler ’24, Natalie Koegler ’24 and Zara Zaidi ’24, sophomores Julia Machado ’25, Liany Maldonado ’25, Kacey Marmolejos ’25 and Giselle Rodriguez ’25, and freshmen Emily Andrews ’26, Lily Bauer ’26, Nijany Genao ’26 and Gianna Rodriguez ’26.
“Camp was truly a valuable experience for the entire team,” Nandini said. “The progress made by the team from the beginning of camp until the end was amazing, both physically and mentally. In just four days, camp allowed us to grow closer as a team and improve our trust in each other, which positively impacted our performance and enjoyment throughout camp.”
The Rams earned three team awards: first place for Sideline Cheer and Camp Routine, and third place for Game Day.
“My biggest highlight was seeing the progress everyone made individually and as a team. I think camp gave us all a new perspective on cheer,” Cherice said. “Even though all we did was cheer, we also learned about leadership. That is very important, not only for captains, but for everyone on the team.”
Six LA cheerleaders earned All-America status: Sydney Geissler, Julia Machado, Kacey Marmolejos, Gbemi Olarewaju, Gianna Rodriguez and Nandini Shah. These girls and all All-American cheerleaders will be invited to special events around the world.
“Pine Forest Cheerleading Camp was a fantastic experience for our team,” Gbemi said. “In just four short days, we accomplished and learned so much. Returning and new cheerleaders alike were able to grow as individuals, as athletes, and most importantly as a team.”