Three Risedale pupils, Eva Langdale (9Vizor), and sisters Lacey Hanson (10Dunphy) and Sienna Hanson (8Lawson), have soared to the top of the cheerleading world as part of the gold-medal-winning Team England squad at the recent World Cheerleading Championships held in Orlando, Florida.

From Showcase to World Stage:

Their journey began in April when they impressed at a Team England showcase event in London. Former Risedale teacher and cheerleading coach, Chelsea Foreman, couldn't hide her pride, "Watching my girls from our small gym in Catterick perform for Team England was one of the proudest moments of my life," she shared on social media. "Yes, I cried happy tears knowing how much this means to them and how hard they've worked!"

School Support Fuels the Fire:

Before jetting off to America the girls' passion and talent received recognition closer to home as the Lazer Cheer athletes put on a fantastic showcase which Head of PE, Miss Brierley, and Teacher of Design & Technology, Mrs Vizor, both attended.

Miss Brierley commented, "The girls' talent is awe-inspiring. Their routines and athleticism are truly amazing. Their passion for cheerleading shines through, and the team is a powerhouse of energy and enthusiasm. We are incredibly proud of the entire squad, especially our Risedale representatives, Lacey, Sienna, and Eva."

At the Catterick showcase Eva was named Team Captain for Team England.

Mrs Vizor, Eva’s Form Tutor said, “It was such a special evening to watch the girls in action. I felt incredibly proud of Eva when she was announced as England Team Captain.”

Facing the World's Best:

On 20th April 2024, 18 Lazer Cheer athletes, including Lacey, Sienna, and Eva, travelled to Orlando, Florida, to compete at "The Summit," one of the most prestigious cheerleading competitions globally. Qualification for the ICU World Cheerleading Championships through a rigorous national process made their participation a significant feat.

"Florida was absolutely incredible," said Eva. "It was my first time ever outside the country, and what a way to kick things off - competing for Team England at one of the most prestigious cheerleading competitions in the world! It wasn't all competition though; we had a blast exploring the amazing Disney and Universal Parks. We even got to see some of the cheerleading teams we idolise in action! But the highlight was definitely winning the gold medal with Team England Youth All Girl Advanced at ICU Worlds. It felt surreal – we got championship rings and everything! The trip kept getting better – we also won gold and another ring at The Open Championships with the Lazer Ice Queens, and then finally achieved our big goal of hitting zero deductions at The Summit! "

Sienna, reflecting on the experience, shared, "I was so happy to have the opportunity to compete for Team England and bring home a gold Medal.” 

Lacey added, "Having the experience of competing at such a high level in both stunting and tumbling on the world’s stage is something I will never forget! I won a bronze medal as part of the Junior All-Girl Elite Team. The whole experience was so exciting and it felt amazing being able to stand on the podium!”

A Hero's Welcome Back at Risedale:

News of the girls' victory ignited excitement throughout the Risedale community. Back at school, PE Teacher and Sienna's Form Tutor, Mr Lawson, surprised them with a special assembly celebrating their incredible feat. He'd secretly collaborated with Lacey and Sienna's Mum to gather photos for the heartwarming tribute.

Mr Lawson, beaming with pride, addressed the assembly, "These girls are an inspiration to all of us. Their achievements are a true testament to their years of unwavering dedication and hard work. Risedale School is incredibly fortunate to have such talented athletes – not many schools can boast international champions!"

On Facebook, proud Mum Kathryn Hanson shared, "Forever proud of my amazing daughters and of course Eva. I would also like to thank Risedale School for being so supportive of their journey    xx"

Eva's Mum, Carissa Langdale, also commented, "So proud of you all. Little super stars . These girls train hard most nights and couldn’t be more deserving. Thank you so much for recognising them and being so supportive "

#TeamRisedale 💙💜🧡❤️

Team England Win Gold!

Photo Credits: Lazer Cheer, Mrs Kathryn Hanson, Miss Brierley, Mrs Vizor and SportCheer England.