Finglas cheerleading team wins world championship title in Florida
Strike Force Cheer, based in New Cross College, Finglas West, Dublin 11, came out on top in the international competition in Florida last week.
The school's senior team, known as SL4TE, are now world champions after winning the International Open CoEd Level 4 NT.
Teams from all around the world were judged on athleticism, skill, technique and performance quality. Deja Blue, the school's junior team, secured a silver medal in their division.
'Making not only Strike Force history, but Irish Cheer history as the very first Irish team to place first in a competitive division in the US,' they said.
'An absolute pinch me moment! We celebrate 37 athletes, two teams and two world placements to be extremely proud of.
'Deja Blue and SL4TE, it's been an absolute pleasure getting to watch you chase your dreams this season.
'When we started this journey we just wanted to put out good quality cheer and now we're here in the US hitting zeros. This journey has been an absolute dream.'
Conor Reddy, People Before Profit Councillor, said: 'A massive congratulations to Strike Force Cheer on bringing a world title home to the area.'
Fianna Fáil TD, Paul McAuliffe, added: 'Huge congratulations to everyone in Strike Force. What an amazing achievement to succeed on the world stage.
'I've no doubt it involved endless practice and preparation. In representing Strike Force, they have also represented the entire community of Finglas and we are so proud of them.'
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Founded in 2008, the group combines gymnastics, acrobatics and intricate choreography. They pride themselves on being Ireland's leading cheerleading program.
'Our passion for cheerleading and commitment to excellence set us apart,' their website reads.
'Experience the thrill of competitive cheerleading and to be part of a community that supports and encourages each other.
'With Strike Force, you'll gain life lessons that you'll take with you far beyond your years of cheerleading.
'We see our athletes achieve success through gaining confidence, building lifelong friendships, developing a strong work ethic, and understanding that a team is only successful when hard work towards a common goal is achieved.'
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