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A cheerleading team from Nottingham has achieved remarkable success by securing a top prize at a major international event in the United States. The EMCA C-Lebrities, based in Nottingham, claimed second place in their category at The Cheerleading Worlds 2022, held in Orlando, Florida.
Competing against 24 elite teams from around the world, the group of 22 cheerleaders, aged between 14 and 30, proudly took home the silver globe. This achievement marks a historic moment, as the EMCA C-Lebrities became the first UK team to win a silver globe at the prestigious competition.
A Team Effort and a Flawless Performance
Head coach Ant Ridgway described the accomplishment as “incredible,” emphasizing the dedication and resilience of the team. Their two-and-a-half-minute final routine was executed flawlessly, with zero points deducted by the judges.
“To perform a routine of this difficulty level perfectly, especially on finals day at The Cheerleading Worlds, is an extraordinary feat,” Ridgway said. “I told the team to give it everything they had, and they delivered.”
When the silver placement was announced, Ridgway admitted he was overcome with emotion, collapsing to the floor in tears of joy. “The pride I feel for this team is indescribable,” he added.
Personal Triumphs and Emotional Farewells
For team members like Solomon, a base and tumbler with six years of experience, the victory felt like a “dream come true.” As the 17-year-old prepares to leave the club for university, the silver globe has left an unforgettable mark on his cheerleading journey.
Beth Rowntree, an 18-year-old backspot and partner stunter, reflected on the bittersweet moment. “Our final performance as a team was filled with nerves and excitement,” she shared. “Ending on such a high note, knowing our hard work paid off, was surreal.”
Despite the joy of their win, emotions ran high as the team bid farewell to three years of rigorous training and competition. “It’s bittersweet,” Rowntree admitted. “But we couldn’t have asked for a better ending.”
From Small Gym to Global Recognition
EMCA, which stands for the East Midlands Cheerleading Academy, was founded in 2018 and has since cultivated a strong reputation in the cheerleading community. Co-owner and coach Helena Zarzycki expressed immense pride in her team’s achievements.
“A small gym from Nottingham earning a silver globe at The Cheerleading Worlds is beyond what we ever imagined,” Zarzycki said. “Seeing their growth, talent, and determination recognized on such a grand stage is something I’ll cherish forever.”
The Road Ahead
The EMCA C-Lebrities have not only made history but also inspired cheerleaders across the UK with their groundbreaking success. Their silver globe victory showcases the potential of smaller teams to achieve greatness on the global stage.
As the cheerleading world eagerly anticipates what’s next for the EMCA C-Lebrities, their story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and passion.
