Cheerleaders Open Fall Season with Win

The Medford Mustang Varsity Cheerleaders entered the fall competition season early, at a Halloween themed invitational tournament hosted by Beverly High School on Sunday.

“I would refer to this competition in sports terms, as a scrimmage,” said first year head coach Michelle Kimball. “Medford’s hosting the league tournament next Thursday and I felt it was important to get the team out onto the mat, in front of a crowd and judges to get any kinks out and for the girls to feel comfortable performing the new routine,” she said.

Medford performed very well, taking 1st in the Division I portion of the competition and receiving the 2nd highest overall score in the entire competition.

“Yes, we had a few issues, some touch outs in tumbling and with our second pyramid, but the girls performed the routine so well it really impressed the judges. The coaching staff was very proud of them. They’ve been very dedicated and worked very hard so far this season,” said Coach Kimball.

Medford received a score of 79.25 out of a possible 100 points. Peabody was second with a score of 71.50. High score of the day went to Norwood High’s Coed team, who received a score of 79.75.

As mentioned, Medford competes next Thursday for the GBL title at Medford High School at 7 PM.

“And, for the first time in a long time, all 5 schools in the GBL are competing, so it should make for a great competition. It is our hope all of Medford’s fans will come out and support their Mustang Cheerleaders,” said Coach Kimball.

Kneeling, left to right: Hailee Centrella, Brianna Hardy, Daniella Colozzo, Capt Brianna Dalessandro, Capt Mikayla DeRienzo, Nicole Dello Russo and Grace Owens. Standing, left to right: Andrea Galicia, Stephanie Silva, Alycia Neirinckx, Christina Bramante, Catharina Jules, Tina Aiello, Gabrielle Morani and Hanny Jacinthe. The girls are coached by Kimball, who is assisted by Anne Raimo, Darla Vitale and Lisa Evangelista.

– Submitted by Lisa Evangelista