PEA RIDGE — To ring in the new year, nine of the 20 of the Pea Ridge Junior High cheerleaders enjoyed a break from the cold and a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Florida for the Capital One Bowl, featuring LSU and Penn State. For some students, it was their first experience being on a plane or even going outof-state.
The junior ’Hawks won a superior rating at camp at the University of Arkansas, entitling them to an invitation to Orlando.
After working hard to raise money by holding fundraisers and soliciting donations, the team flew to Orlando, Fla., Dec. 28 and returned to Arkansason Jan. 2. According to coach Nikki Van Dyke, the squad went to Disney World all four days they were there to practice for their performance during the bowl’s pregame.
“It was the time of their lives and we all really bonded. The trip could not have gone any better.
They met people from all over the country and we were the only representatives from Arkansas, which made us feel special,” Van Dyke said.
Junior Blackhawks who made the trip were Zach Rogers, Brian Skinner, Brittney Thomas, Baleigh Almond, Haley Edwards, Brooke Johnson, Kaylee Laster, Vanessa Hibbard and Cassie Turner.
Area, Pages 11 on 01/13/2010