Belen cheerleaders land honors at NMHU spirit camp

Belen

Five members of the Belen cheerleading team received special recognition in July at what was called a “pop up” spirit camp at New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas.

BHS coach Pauline Vallejos said choreographers at the camp selected Mayela Gray, Alyssa Garcia and Ciara Cisneros, all seniors, and freshmen Alina Salazar and Neveah Sena as All-Americans.

“It’s just a big honor because it takes a lot of work,” said Cisneros, one of the leaders for the Eagles. “It takes a lot of practice and a lot of tears, a lot of sweat.”

Cisneros believes her tumbling ability stood out at the camp.

“I’ve been doing cheer since I was little, so it was a big accomplishment,” said Salazar, who enjoys being a “flyer,” getting tossed high in the air.

The camp was an opportunity not only to be judged but to refine skills.

“I learned how to do a one-man with braces,” said Garcia. “That means I was the only girl under the stunt, holding it up instead of a whole group.”

She admits stunts like this can be a bit scary.

That is similar to the role Sena enjoys.

“I’m most confident in my basing. Holding people.” When asked if it was difficult, Sena replied, “Yes and no. It depends what you’re doing and how skilled you are.”

With their selection, the cheerleaders were invited to participate in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City and the New Year’s Day parade in Rome, Italy. Even though none of the girls will be able to attend, it has been a thrilling adventure.

“The experience was very awesome,” shared Gray. “I’ve been cheering for about 13 years. It’s just a good thing to accomplish. I’ve worked for so long.”