In 2022, Isaiah R. ’25 was one of 30 athletes across the country selected for TEAM IC, an organization that represents Inside Cheerleading (and, previously, Woodward Cheer). Inclusion is based on skills and passion for cheer, and also emphasizes character, leadership, and academics (3.0 g.p.a. or higher). Isaiah applied again for 2023 and really hopes to be honored with another selection.
Isaiah has participated in All-Star Competitive Cheer for five years. Since 2020, he’s been a member of the USA Wildcats, based in Naugatuck, CT. In December 2022, Isaiah’s teams competed in their first competition of the season: the Champion Cheer and Dance Grand National Competition in New Jersey. Both his teams finished in first place and earned invitations to the championship events for their divisions held in April. Additionally, Isaiah’s Senior Elite team, which competes at the highest level, received the highest score of all teams at the event. Isaiah’s mother, Charlene, adds, “It’s a big honor to receive an invitation as it’s based on your team’s overall performance at an event amongst other very competitive teams. Scoring is very challenging as it’s based on the team’s routine of tumbling, stunts and dance, and the level of difficulty as well as the ability to successfully complete the routine with minimal or no errors. It can be a lot of pressure but the team pulls together to execute and support each other. Isaiah is looking forward to resuming competitions in January.”
Participating in many sports over the years, including Little League baseball, flag football, and and basketball, his participation in Acrofitness (a group based in Simsbury) was his constant favorite as it combined gymnastics, acrobatics, stunt, and dance — and it led him to his focus and passion for All-Star Competitive Cheer.
Membership for TEAM IC is very competitive and Isaiah’s responsibilities included:
-Representing the best interests of the All-Star Community, his team and program as a whole over self-interests, and leading by example as a brand ambassador and member of TEAM IC.
-Writing a blog and column/segment and preparing short video clips and photos for Inside Cheerleading Magazine.
Watkinson School is very proud of Isaiah’s accomplishments both in and out of the Competitive Cheer community.
