15-year-old valley girl chosen to be on elite cheerleading team
Posted:
Updated:
By FOX 10 News - Staff Report
PEORIA, Ariz. -
A
valley cheerleader is getting ready for the trip of a lifetime. She's the only Arizona
teen picked to perform in London's New Year's Day Parade. We caught up with the
high school student.
15-year-old Aleia Pope trains at Flames Gymnastics Academy in Peoria. She is one of 500 cheerleaders across the country chosen to represent the U.S. Cheerleading Squad.
"I was so happy, it was incredible," says Aleia. "Since I'm a flyer, I like stunting the best. I like the adrenaline of being tossed in the air, just stretching and being really flexible, so it's really fun."
The honor includes a trip to London to walk in their New Year's Day Parade. Mom Karla is very proud.
"I'm so thrilled to have her experience this opportunity and to go overseas as a teenager. I'm her biggest fan, I got a big sign that says that's my baby! I know all the cheers," says Karla Pope.
Aleia has only been cheering for one year. She's not only excited to be part of the selective squad -- but for her first trip out of the country.
"I want to see new things, new sights, people, language everything."
Aleia is set to leave next month.
To donate to help send Aleia to London: Send a check to... Varsity London Tour P.O. Box 752790 Memphis, TN 38175-2790 *Note the donation is for Kellis High School cheerleader
Aleia Pope
Sunday, May 26 2013 12:01 AM EDT2013-05-26 04:01:47 GMT
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