Leading with spirit
Recently, the Admirals showcased their skills at the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) summer camp at East Tennessee State University (ETSU). Typically, these events allow teams to sharpen their skills, build team unity and prepare for the upcoming season.
FHS took plenty from the camp in these aspects, but it also emerged with an impressive list of accomplishments.
Five Farragut cheerleaders were named UCA All-Americans: Piper Belcher, Natalie Borton, Kinley Bothman, Ava Kincaid, and Caity Penn.
Two senior cheerleaders, Belcher and Norton, were selected to apply to become future UCA camp instructors, “an honor extended to athletes who demonstrate exceptional leadership, technical ability, and enthusiasm throughout camp,” per Jacobs.
The team also took first place in the Spirit Routine and Cheer competitions, claimed second place in the Camp Routine competition and earned the St. Jude Children’s Hospital Spirit Stick for collecting the highest number of completed letters of encouragement for St. Jude patients.
FHS also earned the UCA Banana on the third day of camp, a recognition of its spirit, enthusiasm and sportsmanship, and won a Spirit Stick each day of camp for participation and school spirit.
In addition to the team’s competitive success, FHS won the Leadership Award, one of camp’s highest recognitions.
Voted on by fellow teams, the award is presented to the squad that best exemplifies leadership, sportsmanship, encouragement and positive character throughout the week.
“Our girls represented Farragut High School with incredible pride, work ethic and heart,” Jacobs said. “While we’re certainly proud of the awards and trophies, I’m even more proud of the positive attitudes they demonstrated each day. They encouraged one another, embraced every opportunity to improve and consistently chose to represent our program with class. Those are the qualities that will continue to define our team long after camp is over.”
Jacobs also expressed her appreciation for assistant coach Mackenna Pease and the effort she makes in aiding the Ads.
“I’m incredibly grateful for Coach Pease and the dedication she brings to our program each day,” Jacobs said. “Her preparation, positivity and unwavering commitment to our athletes play an important role in our success, and I am thankful to coach alongside her.”
With camp complete, the Farragut squad turns its attention to preparing for the upcoming football season, as it looks to build on the momentum, confidence and friendships developed and grown during UCA camp.
