Destroyers Have First-Ever Cheerleading Prep Classes in Virginia Beach, Norfolk

by Dusty Sloan
February 28, 2011
UFL

The Virginia Destroyers began the process of building their 2011 cheerleading/dance team Saturday with a pair of prep classes, one in the morning in Virginia Beach and one in the afternoon in Norfolk.

“The prep classes went off without a hitch,” said Kimberly Vaughn, Destroyers cheerleading/dance team Director. “Talented women gathered in two locations on Saturday for cheerleader prep classes, and lots of fun was had.”

Destroyers Public Relations Director David Seals noted the historical context of Saturday’s prep classes, telling the participants, “You have become a part of Virginia Destroyer history by attending the first-ever cheerleading event.”

Women ages 19-33 attended the prep classes, with the goal of better preparing them for the preliminary cheerleading/dance team auditions, which will be March 12 at Broadway Dance Academy (1777 London Bridge Road in Virginia Beach). Attendees practiced kicks, leaps and turns, and learned a dance routine. Pointers such as pointing toes, looking the “professional cheerleader” part and showmanship were reiterated throughout the class.

Vaughn said the feedback from Saturday’s attendees was great.

“I aimed to give the ladies who attended prep classes a really good idea of what to expect during auditions,” she said. “I went through what the day will be like and what’s expected, as well as what the judges will be looking for. Of course, attending prep classes doesn’t guarantee a position on the squad, but it definitely will help give the ladies an edge.”

Speaking about what she will look for once the preliminary tryouts begin, Vaughn said, “I’m really looking for a well-rounded candidate. A woman is who poised and attractive, entertaining to watch, intelligent and has good dance talent will fill the role of a Virginia Destroyers cheerleader perfectly.

“A common misconception of professional cheerleading is that it’s much like high school and college cheerleading teams. The world of professional cheerleading is really focused on dancing, not basket tosses and stunting.”