Contact: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Thursday, December 11, 2008

The Edythe J. Hayes cheerleading squad captured first place in the Cheers from the Heart competition, sponsored by Cheer Elite.

The Panthers also were recognized for collecting the most donations for the Shriners Hospital for Children, with more than $500 – the highest amount that Cheer Elite has collected to date.

“Competing in a competition that is also a fundraiser for another group makes it more fun for each girl, and we feel like we are doing something to help others,” said McKenna Davis, a sixth-grader.

“I think it is extremely important for the girls to realize the importance of giving back and to set an example for others at Hayes. They are leaders in our building, and many students look up to them. By raising money for Shriners, they were able to see what it means to give back to their community, and they had a great time doing it,” Coach Deedra Murray said.

Teams from across the Bluegrass Region competed Nov. 22 at Henry Clay High School. It was the Panthers’ first test of the year.

“Each cheerleader has worked extremely hard to earn their spot on the competition floor. One of the greatest things about this team is that we all have the same goal in mind, which is to continue our hard work in hopes of bringing home a few more trophies” Coach Ashlee Hyde said.

The squad includes Hillary Block, Nicole Caprio, Sydney Christensen, Taylor Conley, McKenna Davis, Madison Gilbert, Tori Greenwell, Connor Goins, Kasey Houlihan, Zaria Jacobs, Michaela McIntosh, Paige Meehan, Shelby Miller, Rosie Page, Allyson Rose, Peyton Seeberger, Sydney Sharpe, Whitney Smith, Sierra Snow, Brandi Stanback, Meaghan Starr, Valerie Varble and Kayla Wilson.