A CARLISLE cheerleading club is entering an exciting new chapter after joining one of the most recognised names in the sport.
After 14 years as Cheer Force Knights, the club founded by Jonny Kirby is rebranding as Cheer Athletics Carlisle, becoming part of the internationally renowned Cheer Athletics network.
For Jonny, who is owner, location director and head coach, the move was an opportunity he could not turn down.
He explained: "When the chance came about, it was a no-brainer.
"Cheer Athletics represents the best of the best in the cheer world.
"It is one of the most recognised names in the industry, and for athletes in the UK it is incredibly rare to have the opportunity to be part of that family."
The club currently has around 180 athletes aged four and above, supported by 10 coaches and several junior coaches.
Programmes include competitive cheerleading, gymnastics and recreational classes, with dance expected to be added in the future.
Jonny said the rebrand would bring world-class coaching resources, training systems and international opportunities while keeping the club’s established coaching team and culture in place.
He said: "It is still led by us and by the coaches our families know and trust.
"We now have the backing, training and expertise of Cheer Athletics, which opens up even more opportunities for our athletes."
The announcement was revealed during what members believed was a routine season launch event.
"No one saw it coming," Jonny said. "The reaction from the athletes and parents was incredible. The children were so excited."
Jonny, who began cheerleading at 21 after a background in gymnastics, said the milestone still feels surreal.
He said: "I remember watching Cheer Athletics videos on YouTube back in 2009 and 2010.
"To think our athletes will now wear that name is amazing."
Tryouts for Cheer Athletics Carlisle begin on June 25, with registration open until June 13.
Jonny hopes the new club will attract athletes from across Northern England and Scotland, helping put Carlisle on the map as a centre for elite cheerleading.
To find out more about tryouts, you can visit the website here: https://www.cheerforceknights.co.uk/
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