By Mark Ambrogi
Guerin Catholic High School junior cheerleader Sarah Downing wasn’t sure about auditioning during the Universal Cheerleading Association summer camp for a chance to march in London’s New Year’s Day parade.
Downing, a 16-year-old Westfield resident, was attending the camp with her Guerin teammates in July at Anderson University. On the last day of the camp, the All-American tryouts were offered.
“At first I was a little nervous because I wasn’t sure what All-American was,” she said. “But one of my coaches talked about it more and I got more interested and thought I give it a shot. We had our best jump and overall showmanship.”
Downing was selected and will be one of more than 650 high school cheerleaders and dancers from around the United States who will represent Varsity Spirit in the parade.
“I’m really excited to see London’s landmarks and to march in the parade with my fellow All-Americans,” said Downing, of the seven-day stay. Downing doesn’t know anyone else going on the trip.
“I’m a little nervous, but I know I’ll be well-taken care of by Varsity (Spirit),” said Downing, who is raising money from family members and using personal savings to pay for the trip.
This is the 29th year Varsity Spirit has taken the All-American cheerleaders to the parade.
Downing, a varsity cheerleader for football and basketball, began cheering in fourth grade at Saint Maria Goretti School.
Just the top 12 percent of the more than 325,000 cheerleaders who attend the 5,000 Varsity summer camp sessions earn the chance. More than 20 countries will be participating.
In addition to cheerleading, she participates in the band, choir and theater at Guerin.
“I’m a busy girl,” said Downing, who plays the flute in the concert band.
