Multiple Victories For The Cheer Team

The Vikings cheer squad had a victorious season! The team cheered for both the SIS boys and girls basketball teams, practiced hard and successfully competed in three competitions.

Also, during their season the team raised money for Camp Rising Sun, a camp for children who have been diagnosed with cancer. Children ages 5 - 17 attend the northwestern Connecticut camp to have fun, improve familiar skills, learn new skills and develop self-confidence by joining in camp activities in a secure positive place.  Donations enable the children to attend the camp free of charge. The squad, along with the Shelton High School cheer squad, raised $2,100. The high school cheerleaders will be volunteering for the second year at the camp to run a spirit clinic for the campers. 

The SIS team’s season ran from December 2010 through March 2011. The squad of 21 girls won first place in their division at all three competitions they attended. At two of these competitions they won the title of Grand Champions, the highest-scoring team at the competition, beating other middle schools and high school teams as well. In addition, the Vikings were awarded Best Choreography, Best Fans and awards for stunt groups. The two and one-half minute routine included tumbling and jump skills, partner and team stunting and dance elements.   

The team (pictured) is comprised of seventh and eighth grade students. From top left the girls are:

Alyssa Gagnon, Brittney Matto, Gillian Malafronte (captain), Alina Gonzalez (captain), Casey Mead, Rachel Silverstein, Jenna Dolbier, (middle row) Kayla Pjatak, Marissa Trafecante, Stephanie Murphy, Serena Pacelli, Maggie May, Rachel Gottschalk, Carley Marleri, (bottom) Julia Kopchik, Alexis Pavone, Dominique Stanziale, Natalie Tuccillo, Alexa Cortinhas, Megan Sampson and Jenn Saberi.  The team is coached by Kelly Swanson and assisted by Denise Scollin, Jessica Young, Chrissy Manion and Danielle Swanson.