Hannah jumps for joy after world cheerleading success
Hannah Watton (14) from Grange Academy has been on top of the world after competing at the World Cheerleading Championships in Florida.
The fierce competition saw 116 teams battle it out for the title of world champion.
Hannah’s cheer team, Rockstar Cheer and Dance had qualified for the world championships after winning the regional heats and being named Scottish champions.
The team had won their title before Hannah joined so she had to audition to be part of team Scotland. She said: “I was quite relaxed about my audition. It took place in our gym and with my own coaches, who are brilliant, so it was just like any other day. I was so pleased to be part of the team and to be the youngest competitor at the world championships.
“The world championships were an unforgettable experience. We came seventh in the world and fifth in the nations cup. There was an amazing atmosphere at the competition and I loved meeting people from all over the world. I can’t wait for the next big competition.”
Councillor Fiona Campbell, Cabinet Member for Skills and Learning met with Hannah at Grange Academy to congratulate her on her achievements. She said: “I was so pleased to meet Hannah and to congratulate her on representing Scotland at the world championships.
“Cheerleading is a very athletic sport and the competitors have to be very fit and have nerves of steel with spectacular throws and gymnastics a key part of every routine.
“At just 14 years of age, I was amazed by how mature and confident Hannah is. She is a credit to her family and her school and I am sure we will hear great things about her in the future.”