This past summer, five of Out-of-Door Academy's cheerleaders were recognized for their excellence and awarded the All American Honors, the Super Bowl ring of cheerleading.

Sierra Dickerson, Alexsa Dietrich, Emma Holland, Madison Shaw, and Ashtin Frank, the only five to try out from our squad, "were chosen out of hundreds," says Frank.

The judges evaluated skills in a dance, a cheer, and multiple jumps to determine which applicants were worthy of the honor. This prestigious award grants its winners an opportunity to do what they love, cheer, in London for the New Year's Day Parade.

This is an experience many cheerleaders dream about, but only a select few get the chance to realize that dream. Frank and Holland, as team captain and co-captain, are also eligible to cheer for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, "also a very sought after event to participate in."

The only potential obstacle to going could be the expense.

Though the girls' talent was recognized, if they want to go, they will have to raise the money themselves. After the initial excitement, the reality set in for the girls as they came to know the immense cost in merely getting there: a cool $1,000 for the plane ticket.

Once you arrive it will cost you "$50 per person for someone to drive you to your hotel," says Sierra Katherine, a freshman honoree. However this is trumped by the $2,400 hotel charge, not to mention the $400 non-refundable deposit. In all, this trip would cost each athlete nearly $4,000 to truly realize this cheerleading honor.

In addition to being asked to cheer, Frank was also "asked to apply to be part of the event staff" for next year's competition. One day, they may ask her to judge, but until then she, Alexsa, Emily, Madison, and Sierra will be basking in their glory as All American Honor designees.

Despite the fact that these ODA cheerleaders may not be able to fully realize the honor of this distinction, ODA reveres their accomplishments and congratulates them on their recognition.