MONROE, CT — The Monroe Lions D12 Cheerleading team showcased an incredible performance at the Regional Competition held at the Tsongas Center in Lowell, Mass., on Nov. 16. Facing tough competition from nine other teams, many with older athletes, the Monroe D12 team secured an impressive fourth place finish — just shy of third place, which would have qualified them for Nationals.
Despite this, they delivered an outstanding performance and surpassed many other talented teams.
“I am so proud to have been a coach to these girls,” said Head Coach Gianna DeCaro. “The amount of dedication, heart, and resilience these young athletes have shown throughout the season is truly unmatchable. Making it to regionals this year was the result of countless hours of practice, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to each other and the sport.”
This newly formed D12 team comprises athletes who previously competed on D10 and D8 teams, as well as two other girls who were new to its cheer program: Abby S., Evalie M., Brianna S., Penelope R., Charlotte N., Nissi N., Lily B., Brooklyn K., Maiya H, Ava G., Gigi F., Brooklyn D., Gia D., Emily C. Elsa C., Lily K. Allison A. and Aubrey A.
Most of these girls have been cheering together since kindergarten, building a remarkable bond that truly sets them apart, according to their coaches, who said their dedication and teamwork were evident as they took the mat for warm-ups at 7:16 a.m. and delivered an exceptional performance at 7:53 a.m. — achieving a “hit 0” score with zero deductions.
“This team is more than just a group of athletes — they’re a family, and being part of their journey has been an incredible blessing,” DeCaro said. “Watching them grow, support one another over the years, and achieve so many milestones has been one of the greatest honors!”
The coaching staff includes familiar faces from last year. In addition to DeCaro, the team is led by Assistant Coach Audra Santos and Assistant Coach Stephanie Ramalhete. This year, they were joined by Assistant Coach Robyn Augustine, whose contributions were a great addition to the team, according to DeCaro.
Coach Audra Santos reflected on the season, saying: “This season was one to remember. The girls formed a bond like sisters, demonstrating pride and commitment as they represented the Monroe Lions. Since I began coaching with the Lions in 2019, I’ve felt like I’ve gained a second family—these incredible athletes, their supportive parents, and my amazing fellow coaches.”
“Coaching this team has been an unforgettable and deeply rewarding experience,” she said. “I hope the memories we’ve created together stay with them forever, along with the lessons they’ve learned to help them succeed both on and off the mats.”
Monroe Lions D12 team leaders gave a special shout-out to team mom Maura Mitchell and its most creative parent, Courtney Kelly, whose Cricut creations added a personal and memorable touch to the season. They said their dedication and hard work have been invaluable in making this journey unforgettable for the entire D12 team.
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