Four students from Sunset High School’s cheerleading team celebrated the arrival of 2024 in London at the city’s New Year’s Eve parade, an opportunity afforded them as members of the Universal Cheerleaders Association’s (UCA) All American: Varsity Spirit team. For two students, this trip was their first time out of the country, and for the others it was their first time on an airplane.
Anahi and fellow cheerleader Marline V. were joined by stuntmen Nathaniel T. and Santiago P. Their 1-½-minute routine was performed eight to nine times throughout the route to Taylor Swift’s hit, “Shake It Off.” They learned the choreography before the parade using a video lesson; it included several traditional gameday stunts such as the toss chair, shoulder stands, and toss-to-hands.
“Because we already had a friendship, I knew I would be able to put my trust in Santiago,” Anahi said. “I’d seen him work with other people and knew he would always ensure their safety, so I wasn’t scared. At first I was really scared of heights, but over time my fear went away and I learned to improve.”
During the seven-day visit, students went on a guided tour of the city including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London, where they saw the Crown Jewels. They also witnessed the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and saw the musical “Wicked” in the West End.
The Sunset cheerleading squad also recently achieved a milestone by qualifying for the University Interscholastic League’s (UIL) Spirit State Championship, marking their first qualification in about a decade. Additionally, some team members showcased their talents in the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Sunset cheerleaders who performed at Macy’s Parade:
- Natalie B.
- Leslie O.
- Anahi B.
- Emma G.
Sunset cheerleaders who performed at London’s New Year’s parade:
- Nathaniel T.
- Marline V.
- Anahi B.
- Santiago P.
