MSA-West fields cheerleading squad

Fourteen Iberville Math, Science and Arts Academy-West students have been selected to a new cheerleading squad that expects to compete locally and regionally by the next school year.

The students who made the squad are Tiquincia Allen, Destiny Angeron, Shelley Banks, Lindsay Gauthreaux, Jacie Gibson, Madison Gullatt, Summer Jumonville, Derra Leonard, Ravyn Mendoza, Chance Moreau, Jada Taylor, Amy Thibodeaux, Bryan Walker, and Jessica Williams.

Members of the squad are in good standing academically, and demonstrated superior athleticism during recent try-outs, according to the school.

Coaches Shalonda Skidmore, Jeanne Bass and Jacqueline Barker are helping them to prepare to lead pep rallies and to compete in seven local and regional competitions during the 2010-2011 school year.

The cheerleaders practice from 3:30-5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays to develop their stunt skills. Squad practices are open to the public.

They also will attend a cheerleading camp in Hammond this summer.