Young cheerleader wins Jack Petchey Award
A young cheerleader has been honoured with the Jack Petchey Achievement Award for her outstanding efforts as part of the Palace for Life x Performance and Creative Arts Academy squad, run as part of the Premier League Kicks programme.
The Jack Petchey Achievement Award Scheme recognises outstanding young people aged 11-25 across London and Essex, where a young person is nominated by their peers in their school or youth organisation. Each award winner receives a certificate and the chance to choose how to spend a £250 grant to benefit their school or organisation.
Nominated last November, Kaci was put forward for the award by her fellow cheerleaders due to the impact she has on their cheer group. She is seen as a role model throughout the squad, full of encouragement to all members whilst applying high levels of effort to maintain her own standards and ability.
Kaci and her teammates opted to spend the grant on a fun, team building excursion at Flip Out trampoline park followed by a meal with PL Kicks co-ordinator John Patrick, PACA Academy Cheer coach Isha Campbell. This gave them a rare opportunity to bond, practice their stunts and get to know each other better outside of their weekly training sessions.
Award winner and Cheer Captain Kaci said: “Our time in cheer is very limited and the girls work extremely hard to learn choreography, continue their strength & flexibility training, then work on stunts together, the time is extremely limited in regards to establishing a deeper friendship connection and chaperoned excursions allow this to blossom naturally.”
Premier League Kicks coordinator John Patrick said: “As part of the PL Kicks programme we use trips as a way to establish friendships, give new experiences and also give coaches an opportunity to get to know the young people better.”
The cheer programme is currently made up of 22 cheerleaders who train every Thursday, 5-6pm at Harris South Norwood School. For more information contact JohnPatrick@palaceforlife.org.