TWO Cheerleading squads have come back trophy winners from an international competition.

Falcon Cheer from Arlesey and MBA Allstars Cheerleaders, who train in Hitchin, have both been recognised as being among the best in the world at the Future Cheer International Championships in Bournemouth.

Stuart Phipps, head coach for the Falcons who came second in the junior age group, said: “We are a brand new team started in October and this was our first competition. We have been training two to three times a week just to get things started.

“For a lot of them it was a whole brand new experience. To qualify was great but for them to place was brilliant. This is a huge achievement by the whole squad.”

Stuart, a former international competitor himself, now wants to expand the Falcons age groups. To join the squad which practices at Etonbury Middle School, email him on falconcheer@live.co.uk

The Allstars came seventh in the junior category and 11th in the seniors at the two day competition which saw 3,000 cheerleaders performing over 400 routines involving aerial stunts, tumbling and dance.

Ashley Goldson, project manager at MBA, a Stevenage charity that helps youths through sport, said: “The girls had to work hard to make last minute adjustments to both routines as two members of the squad were unable to compete due to injuries. It is a fantastic result for the team, they are very excited.”

The Allstars are also holding tryouts this summer for new members. They are looking for girls and boys who have tumbling, gymnastic or dancing skills for their under-10 under-12, under-15 and 16-plus teams.

To find out more call 07852 242653 or email mbamentoring@yahoo.co.uk