A GROUP of talented cheer athletes from Basingstoke is gearing up for an exciting journey to the United States next year after securing an impressive eighth place in the World Cheerleading Championships.

Representing the Wolverines Cheer Academy, these young athletes are to take the cheerleading world by storm as they prepare to participate in the most significant cheerleading contests in Florida next April.

The Wolverines Cheer Academy, located at Neville Court in Armstrong Road, boasts a membership of around 300 athletes, with their youngest member a mere three-years-old.

The dedicated group of athletes made a remarkable showing this year when they sent two teams, consisting of 40 athletes, to compete in Florida, ultimately clinching an admirable eighth-place finish.

READ MORE: Basingstoke Wolverines Cheer Academy crowned national champions

In the upcoming year, the Wolverines Cheer Academy has set its sights on even greater accomplishments.

Their team, named Lady X, will be competing in the World Championships, while Weapon X will aim for victory at the prestigious Summit competition.

Both the high-stakes events are scheduled to take place in Florida in April 2024.

But the Wolverines Cheer Academy's ambitions don't stop there. A third team, Predator X, is preparing to make a journey to Barcelona in May, to compete against other teams from around Europe at the Future Cheer International competition.

If they succeed, they will secure a chance to compete in Florida in 2025.

To support these aspiring athletes and help them achieve their dreams, the teams are actively seeking sponsorship opportunities.

"They are an amazing group of young people. They will appreciate any help from the community," said Emma Redmond, who is one of the many members trying to secure funds for the travelling athletes.

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"The eighth-place finish this year was truly amazing. They are looking to better it next year. To take eighth place in the world is something incredible."

If you are interested in supporting these dedicated young athletes or becoming a sponsor, you can contact them via email at wcasponsorshipuk@gmail.com.