[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 31 (Friday, March 8, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E317]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E317]]


             LEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY CHEERLEADING TEAM

                                 ______


                           HON. HOWARD COBLE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 8, 1996

  Mr. COBLE. Mr. Speaker, as the college and high school basketball 
seasons move into high gear, we pause for a moment to give praise to 
one group closely associated with the sport of round ball which is 
often overlooked, namely the cheerleaders. These dedicated young people 
contribute much to the joy and enthusiasm which exists at our Nation's 
high school and college basketball games, as well as many other 
sporting events.
  Of course, everyone knows that North Carolina is a basketball hotbed. 
We are proud of the level of basketball skills exhibited at the high 
school and college levels and that includes our cheerleaders. We think 
they are the best. Now, we have proof that the Sixth District of North 
Carolina is home to the best cheerleaders in our State.
  The members of the Ledford High School varsity cheerleading team were 
declared State champs recently in the North Carolina State 2A 
cheerleading championships. The Davidson County high school squad, 
coached by Debbie Pope, won the State title which was sponsored by the 
North Carolina Cheerleading Coaches Association and recognized by the 
North Carolina High School Athletic Association.
  The Panthers' cheerleading squad is comprised of team captains 
Heather Pitts and Courtney Troutman, as well as Shannon Montgomery, 
Chrissy Ayers, Lauren Garner, Leslie Varner, Kellie Jackson, Ashley 
Craven, April Kindred, Brittany Yountz, Mellisa Quinn, and Alicia 
Belle.
  The most recent State championship is not the only trophy captured by 
the Ledford cheerleaders. The squad won the varsity dance/pom 
championship at UCA summer camp and the ECA regional championship in 
the varsity division. Ledford was also invited to the ECA Nationals. 
Three team members were selected as all-stars at UCA summer camp, and 
Chrissy Ayers was chosen to be a member of the West squad for the N.C. 
East/West All-State Cheerleading Team.
  For winning this title, we offer our congratulations to Ledford 
principal Max Cole, athletic director Gary Hinkle, Coach Debbie Pope, 
the faculty, staff, students and families of Ledford High School. We 
are certain that the whole community is sharing in the excitement.
  So, if you attend a sporting event at Ledford High School anytime 
soon, take special notice of the cheerleaders because they are State 
champions. From the citizens of the Sixth District of North Carolina, 
three cheers to the Ledford High School Varsity Cheerleading Team.

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