Sports

Newtown Cheerleaders on the Road to Nationals

Two Newtown Nighthawks cheerleading squads took first place honors at the regional championships Saturday.

Following their victorious performance at the New England Regional Cheer Championships, Newtown Nighthawks cheerleaders are readying for their National Title shot in Orlando, Florida — and they're asking for the community's help to get them there.

Newtown's D15 (8th grade) and D12 (5th and 6th grade) teams both finished first in the championships, held Saturday at Hartford's XL Center. More than 150 teams competed for the honor.

"The teams have been hard at work, conditioning and practicing since the beginning of August – this is truly an earned honor!" said D12 coach Melissa Gordon. "They have fought their way through many obstacles and come together to proudly represent our amazing town!"

About 60 cheerleaders are hoping to attend the championships, according to organizers. The fundraiser has brought in $810 from Newtown residents in three days, as of Wednesday evening. The group will be paying its own way out of pocket, organizers say.

To donate, check out the group's GoFundMe page.


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