By CHAD COOPER
Students interested in joining Southern Gap High School’s inaugural competition cheer program will have several opportunities to sharpen their skills and meet teammates during a series of open gyms beginning later this month.
The sessions are open to all students in grades 8-12 and will be held primarily at the Buchanan County YMCA. Coaches said both junior varsity and varsity teams will be formed, with all eligible students encouraged to participate.
The first open gym was held on July 20, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Additional sessions are planned for July 24, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; July 29, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; and Monday, Aug. 3, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Each open gym will feature a different theme to help create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for participants. The July 20 session was “Dress Like Your Water Bottle” theme, followed by “Anything But a Bow” on July 24, “White Lie T-Shirt” on July 29 and “Crazy Socks & High Ponies” on Aug. 3.
In addition to the open gyms, a cheer clinic is scheduled for Monday, July 27, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Organizers said additional information about the clinic will be announced soon.
Team evaluations will be held Wednesday, Aug. 5, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Choreography for the squad is scheduled for Aug. 7-8.
The open gyms are designed to help athletes improve their cheerleading skills, build team chemistry and prepare for evaluations as Southern Gap High School launches its first competition cheer program.
Because schedules are subject to change, students and parents are encouraged to monitor the Southern Gap competition cheer Facebook page for updates. School officials also remind participants that open gyms will be held at the YMCA unless otherwise announced.
For more information, contact competition cheer coach Megan Wolford at [email protected].
