Windham cheerleading competes in Regional Championships

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham cheerleading team competes during the 
Class A North regional Championships at Lewiston High
School on Feb. 5. Front from left are Chloe Fitts, Talia
Campobasso, Natalie Adams, and Hailey Jenness. Back
from left are Dakota McLeod, Ella Roberts, Elle
Archibald and Vanessa Berry.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA
 

During a season scattered with difficulties, the Windham cheerleading team did a great job during the Class A North Regional Championships against several other schools from all around the state.

Although the team was hit hard because of COVID-19, quarantining and injuries, everyone on the team is very happy to be able to cheer and compete.

Windham’s appearance and performance at the Regional Championships was a culmination of the season’s hard work. Although they did not receive a medal, Windham’s talent, athleticism and high energy showed during this Regional Championship held at Lewiston High School on Saturday, Feb. 5.

Windham’s routine featured several well-coordinated motions. Windham performed tumbles as well as stunts which are maneuvers that have flyers freshmen Ella Roberts and Vanessa Berry supported in the air. They performed jumps, where their arms and legs left the ground simultaneously. They also performed several handsprings.

“I think we did pretty good today,” said Windham junior Natalie Adams. “We’ve only learned our routine two weeks ago due to Covid and injuries and setbacks. So, for only learning our routine two weeks ago ... I think we did good.”

Adams said it felt amazing to compete and especially after not being able to last year, it felt really good to get back out there. Adams said everyone has put in a lot of hard work, and they can tell that hard work paid off.

“It’s pretty fun being here,” said Roberts.

Roberts thought they had some minor bumps in their routine, and they may have psyched themselves out a bit. However, Roberts said at the state meet they are going to do their best and show everyone Windham can cheer. (We already know they can).

“We have a lot to work on, but we didn’t start practicing with a full team until two weeks ago, so they have done incredibly well,” said Windham varsity cheering coach Bari Campobasso. “They are a young team; I’m very proud of them because it’s a lot. It’s not just cheering on the sidelines, the competition piece is a whole separate thing.”

Campobasso said she doesn’t want the obstacles the team has gone through to overshadow them. The fact that Windham overcame so much in such a small amount of time is a testament to them and their capabilities.

She thought the energy was good and they stuck together as a team. Campobasso is also proud of their attitude and enthusiasm.

“They wanted to kill it; so the attitude matters more to me than if they get a medal.” <