Warwick cheerleaders excel at Cheer Camp

The Warwick Valley varsity cheerleading team kicked off its 2026 season with four exciting and rewarding days at National Cheer Association (NCA) Cheer Camp on August 19-22. Throughout camp, the Wildcats participated in intensive skill-building, team bonding, leadership development and performance training while demonstrating perseverance, sportsmanship and a strong work ethic. 

Several Warwick athletes received special recognition from NCA staff. Senior captain Riley Kimiecik and sophomores Mayli Winfrey and Sophia DeGroat earned NCA All-American awards for superior technical skills in stunting, tumbling, and jumps, as well as outstanding leadership and spirit. All-American athletes are invited to perform at special events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Mayli Winfrey was also a Top Gun Tumble winner. Sophomore Eva Pellino was the Top Gun Dance finalist.

Senior captain Mariah Boatswan received a Pin It Forward Award, which celebrates leadership, kindness and the ability to inspire others. Riley Kimiecek and Olivia Zottola were nominated to become NCA staff members post graduation.

The Wildcats also earned several team honors at camp including being named Spirit Stick Recipients all four days for their energy, dedication and sportsmanship. The team also earned a Tumbling Technical Excellence award and the Herkie Team award, which recognizes superior team performance and unity.

Beyond the awards, camp provided countless opportunities for athletes to grow both individually and collectively. The team participated in skill development and refinement, while captains Riley Kimiecik, Alix Ragans, Mariah Boatswain, Gabriella DiMassa, and Brianna Martino took part in leadership training designed to strengthen their roles as leaders within the program. Coaches also participated in continued education and training sessions to bring new techniques, strategies, and ideas back to the Warwick Valley Cheerleading program. 

Mentorship was another important part of the camp experience. Through the team's “Big Sister/Little Sister” buddy program, athletes strengthened relationships across grade levels, encouraged and supported one another, and created lasting memories while developing an even greater sense of unity within the team. 

Throughout camp, the Wildcats also learned, perfected and refined a mini routine before performing it for NCA staff and fellow camp athletes. The routine challenged the team to apply the skills, technique, teamwork and performance qualities developed throughout the week. Portions of the camp routine will now be incorporated into the team’s larger pep rally performance, which the Warwick Valley community will have the opportunity to see later this fall during Homecoming and the Warwick Valley High School Pep Rally! 

Most importantly, the four-day experience was about much more than cheerleading skills. The camp gave the Wildcats an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen leadership, demonstrate perseverance and sportsmanship, support one another, and begin the season with a stronger sense of team. 

The growth, friendships, and memories created at NCA Camp have provided an exciting foundation for what lies ahead for Warwick Valley Varsity Cheerleading this season!