UCT journeyed to the UKCA National Championships in Manchester at the weekend — with the Buzzy Bees heading the achievements of five different squads taking part on the day.

UCT coach Nicola Drummond told bufc.co.uk: “We have been working so hard since the end of January with all the routines and it totally paid off. We had an amazing day and set the tone from the word go.

”We entered the arena feeling a little nervous but not as nervous as last year. This is such a big event, with cheerleaders entering from all over the country, including those that have travelled across from Ireland.

“For those that had not taken part the previous year this was a MASSIVE stage for them.”

Results in the Pom Dance Category included:

MASTERS
UCT Bee Amazed adult group finished in ninth place.

SENIORS
UCT Queen Bees finished in fourth place. This group is a small group of cheerleaders ranging from 13-17. They put on an amazing show. If you are a teenager looking for a hobby, come and join us.

JUNIOR A
UCT Bumble Bees finished in third place with their Men in Black routine. This was a great achievement from a big section. Well done girls!

TEENIES
UCT Little Bees finished in fifth place. With their Mary Poppins complicated propped routine, they did an awesome job.

TINY TEENIES
UCT Buzzy Bees are now NATIONAL CHAMPIONS, taking first place with their Madagascar-themed routine which wowed the judges and audience. This was a complex routine that we knew if we could get them prepared would be a winning routine. This group is aged 5-7 years old. Well done to all 10 members of the squad.

Drummond continued: “I have to thank the team I have behind me — if it was not for them it would not be possible, from my assistant coach Teresa, my older cheerleaders who help with the younger teams, Kat, Rod, Jane, Emily, Tom and Sue who were chaperones on the day, Anneka and Jess for playing the music, Sue for making costumes and props, all the UCT family and friends who all help out by supporting us and last but not least our amazing cheerleaders who have to put in so much hard work.

“We do work them hard and aim high. This is not always easy but very worthwhile in the long run. Well done everyone!”

If anyone is looking for a new hobby or you are inspired by our United Cheer Team, come along and give cheerleading a go (The Sport with Smiles).

Contact Nicola Drummond on 07951 401718 or via e-mail.