MONROE, CT — Girls on the Monroe Lions D10 Cheerleading Team extended an exceptional season with a top three finish in the Regional Competition in New Hampshire on Nov. 19, earning an invitation to compete in the AYC National Championship in Florida on Dec. 9.
The stakes are high, with only the top five highest-scoring teams in each division advancing to compete for the 2023 AYC National Championship on Super Sunday, Dec. 10.
The journey for the Monroe Lions Cheerleaders began in late July, with a week of intensive conditioning and practice four times a week during the summer and three times a week during the school year.
“The dedication of these cheerleaders to their teammates, coaches, and the sport is truly commendable,” said Coach Audra Santos.
This year, the Monroe Lions D10 team is under the guidance of new Head Coach Gianna DeCaro.
Santos said DeCaro is the sole coach without children on the team, underscoring her unwavering dedication to this group of girls.
DeCaro, an experienced cheerleader herself and a resident of Monroe, has led a team of 17 girls to the National Competition.
Supporting her is returning assistant coach Audra Santos, who has been with the Monroe Lions Cheerleaders for five years, and first-year assistant coach Stephanie Ramalhete.
Together, they have worked tirelessly to elevate the team from competing at the local level to the grand stage of Nationals. When asked about their coaching journeys, the trio highlighted the happiness derived from observing the girls’ development and contributing positively to each of their lives.
The team is comprised of girls ages 8 to 10, who have formed a close-knit bond, akin to sisters, according to Santos.
The team includes fifth graders Lauren Constantine, Gia DeLorenzo, Gigi Fensore, Ava Guerra, Lily Kuhns, Evalie Mitchell and Abby Spalding; fourth graders Margo Solonska, Brianna Santos, Penelope Ramalhete, Brooklyn Kelly, Brooklyn Domack, Emily Coello, Elsa Charbonneau, Lily Briggs and Aubrey Anzalone; and third grader Allison Augustine.
Their unity has been a key factor in their success.
Behind the scenes, the girls’ dedicated parents play a crucial role in supporting the team, going above and beyond to ensure their success, according to Santos.
For those who wish to show their support, the team is hosting a 50/50 raffle until Sunday, Dec. 3, with a live drawing scheduled on the Monroe Lions Cheerleading Facebook page. Donations for the raffle can be made by contacting Coach Audra Santos at 203-526-9345.
“The team appreciates any and all support as they gear up for the National Championship,” Santos said.
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