They may be tiny, but they sure are mighty – and all 26 of them will prove their worth at Disney World.
However, the Lansdale Cannoneers Tiny Mites cheerleading squad, comprised of local five and six year olds, needs the public’s help in raising $30,000 to get there.
The team won first place at Bux-Mont and at the Pop Warner regionals in Trenton recently. Now, they head to the Nationals in Florida.
As of Thursday, they have raised $2,225 toward their large goal. Donate to the team’s fundraiser here and check out their Facebook fundraising page here.
It's a dream come true for our dedicated girls, and we're turning to our amazing community to help make it happen. Competing at the national level is a significant achievement, and we want to give our girls the chance to showcase their talent, hard work, and the spirit that makes them truly exceptional. However, participating in a national competition involves substantial expenses, including travel, accommodation, registration fees," said cheer coordinator and fundraiser organizer Michelle Gugliotti. "Your generous contributions will not only help cover these costs but will also contribute to the overall success and growth of our organization."
According to Gugliotti, the girls are being coached toward success by first-year coaches Ashely DiSanto, Stephanie Jacques, Stephanie Rich, and Kristin Pasceri.
“It would make me so happy to go to Florida to represent my team with my friends,” said cheerleader Kali Cox.
Paige Pasceri said the nationals would make her shine brighter than she ever has before. Teammate Lilly DiSanto said the Florida Nationals means the team worked hard and proved they were able to work together.
“It makes me feel happy and important. It makes me feel like I am needed,” said Taylor Keevers.
“I am so excited!” said Joy Lewis. “It is a special thing to do. It means that I am a champion no matter what. Yes, I am a winner.”
Gugliotti said the girls have been working very hard on their routines, at least multiple times a week and all are dedicated to doing their best.
“We did a lot of practicing and it got us all hyper,” said Charleigh Rich. “We wanted to win, tried our best and we won!”
Gugliotti said cheerleading can have a positive impact on young lives by promoting teamwork, discipline and a strong sense of community.
"Every donation, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to achieving our goal. We would be incredibly grateful for any support you can provide, whether through monetary donations or in-kind," she said.
At present, the Tiny Mites are seeking a practice space with high ceilings for use in the evening.