Her very first Cheer Competition

We have been dabbling in the world of cheer for about 5 years. But this weekend- we took the full plunge. Afton had her very first cheer competition.

It was the NCA North Texas Classic. And it was all I imagined it would be-- teased hair, lots of make-up, bling, loud music, and hair spray (so much hair spray!) This is not rec cheer, this is competition cheer and it is serious business!

We started the day at 10am, picking up her friend Parker to get cheer ready. Full hair, make-up, uniform and bow. (I am not ashamed to admit, I love this part. I never out-grew the 'playing dress-up' phase.) We checked in at the event at 12 noon and her team 'went on' around 2:45pm.

Just to give you a little background on the time/work/effort it takes to make it to a competition... Afton auditioned and made the team "Fever" last May. It is a Level 2 Large Youth Team, made up of 27 girls, ages 7-12. Since June, they have been practicing two or three times a week, learning stunts, jumps and the dance.

Despite some apprehensions that they weren't ready, they took the mat on Sunday and performed their little hearts out! These girls were definitely ready and they did such a great job.

Afton is basing in the middle stunt group. See her on the right side of the middle stunt group? 

Afton hit all her parts and her stunts. She was very proud of herself and wore her 'cheer' hair until she went to bed. The next competition is in December at Dallas Cowboys Stadium. She can't wait!