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Ascension Eagles Cheerleaders (AEC), from London’s 2012 borough of Newham, have won a bid to represent England at the 2007 Cheerleading World Championships.  Unfortunately, due to lack of funds the group may not be able to attend.

AEC Director Shara Brice MBE said, “Teams all over the world are desperate to win a bid to Worlds.  Our kids have won the coveted bid, but they know their families and our programme do not have the money to go in 2007.  While we gained valuable insight and experience competing for the first time in the 2006 Worlds, it totally depleted us financially.”

Ascension Eagles, established in 1996 as an outreach of Ascension Church Centre, Custom House, consistently rank among the best of Britain’s 11,000 cheerleaders.  They were England’s first-ever team to compete at the 2006 Cheerleading World Championships, where they were ranked 12th in the World.

Jim Chadwick, President of the International All Star Federation said, “There are American teams that competed at 2006 Cheerleading Worlds who have been undefeated for five years at major national competitions, and placed 4th-6th at Worlds.  For Ascension Eagles to premiere and rank in their first attempt is a major accomplishment.  When a country enters an Olympic event for their first time, they expect it to be a learning experience.  Ascension Eagles have exceeded expectations and made their mark on the world stage.”

Newham’s Mayor Sir Robin Wales says, “The Ascension Eagles are some of Newham’s finest ambassadors. We’re doing everything we can to help them reach the World Championships. The achievements of the young people deserve to be recognised and England deserves to be represented by the best cheerleaders in the country.”

London City Airport’s Chief Executive, Richard Gooding, agrees, “"When a team comes this far and achieves this much, they have to take the next step.  They cannot stop here.  Ascension Eagles need to accept this bid and represent England, competing at the 2007 World Championships."

ELBA's Alison White, Thames Gateway Programme Director, wants more corporates toback the Eagles and help them get to the Worlds. Alison said, “"The young people involved are among the most hard-working and disciplined teenagers in the country and are rightly proud of their achievements. They Need our support."

In an attempt to raise funds, Ascension Eagles have set up a scheme where people can text "CHEER" to 84424. 

Each text will result in a £1.50 donation being made, with £1 going to AEC and the balance going to the mobile service (regular mobile charges apply).    The phone numbers of all the people who donate will be entered in a prize draw that will take place in mid-January.  For the prize draw, London City Airport has donated two round trip flights and accommodation to Edinburgh.  “Take That” – with whom the Eagles are performing on December 2nd – have donated signed copies of their World Tour DVD.  Additional prizes are being sought.

Over the past ten years the record-breaking, history-making Ascension Eagles have won over 250 trophies, including 136 first place titles.  The team has entertained over 170 million people and has served as Official Cheerleaders for UEFA SuperCup Monaco, FA Cup Cardiff, Women’s UEFA and FA Cups, London Marathon, London Triathlon, London Knights and for the closing of Arsenal’s Highbury. 

In addition to gaining championship-level cheerleading skills, these East End youth gain leadership and lifeskills that enable them to serve as ambassadors on a regional, national and international level.  Through year-round activities, they learn to transfer their cheerleading success into the other parts of their lives. 

To offer your support, please text CHEER to 84424.