The Suffolk Steelers Pee Wee Squad Cheerleaders placed first in a local Pop Warner cheerleading competition on Saturday, Oct. 25 at King’s Fork High School. This first place competition qualifies them to take part in a regional competition in Charlotte, N.C. near the end of November.

The team originated on Aug. 1 and includes girls ages 9 and 10.

The team’s success is attributed to instructors from All Star Cheer and Tumble who teach the girls fancy cheering routines. It is also attributed to two volunteer coaches, head coach Venus Watkins, and assistant coach Keyosha Wiggins who spend their free time assuring that the girls are continuing to practice to achieve perfection in their routine. Included in its success is Lakeisha Jefferson, a former cheerleader from Lakeland High School, who often attends practice to assist coaches as needed.

Team members work very hard during practices that take place in the summer from 6 to 8 p.m. and from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the fall.

Open enrollment to new members will take place again in June 2009.

The team is in need of financial support from the community to make the trip to Charlotte and will hold its first fundraiser, a chicken and fish dinner sale in the Style Shop parking lot at 177 E. Washington St. from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8.

If anyone would like to make a donation to support the Suffolk Steelers Pee Wee Squad, please feel free to contact team moms at 292-7748 or 235-6982.