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Kierra Arnold, a freshman cheerleader at Jersey Shore Area High School, was recently selected as an All-American cheerleader at the National Cheerleading Association school cheer camp this past summer.

Kierra Arnold, a freshman cheerleader at Jersey Shore Area High School, was recently selected as an All-American cheerleader at the National Cheerleading Association school cheer camp this past summer. Following a tryout process during the summer, where Arnold was named an All-American by scoring 23-of-30 points, Arnold qualified to perform in the London New Year’s Day Parade.

“Kierra is ecstatic to be given the opportunity to represent her school district as well as be part of such a grand event. All-Americans captivate audiences with their performances,” Kierra’s mother, Gwen said. “Being an All-American Cheerleader can lead to camaraderie, respect and a sense of belonging. Kierra always tries her best and wants any Cheerleader that she comes into contact with to love the sport just like her.”

Kierra was one of two Jersey Shore cheerleaders to be selected as an All-American. While in London, Arnold will not only perform in the parade but also get the opportunity to sight-see and practice.

In order to be named an All-American, cheerleaders must demonstrate exceptional skills in tumbling, stunts, jumps, dance and good overall athleticism. Strong leadership qualities, good sportsmanship and positive attitude are also looked at. Cheerleaders that exhibit these qualities are nominated throughout camp, and once nominated, must try out in front of the NCA panel of judges using the materials they learned at camp.

Arnold has been cheerleading since she was four-years-old. A sport that she was introduced to at a young age, Arnold often watched her older sister love the sport as well as the two attended many national competitions over the years.

Becoming an All-American is a great achievement for Kierra, and it is also an impressive achievement to colleges and universities giving out cheer scholarships.

“One of her favorite and recent memories was her Diamonds All-Star team, placing 13th in the US at D1 Summit at ESPN World Wide Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. She keeps continuing to grow in the sport, while maintaining excellent grades,” Kierra’s mother stated.

Kierra has grown a clear passion and enjoyment for cheerleading. She’s taken that to the national stage and showcases it on Friday nights at Jersey Shore football games. She hopes that her dedication to the sport can rub off on others to grow a sport that she has been devoted to for quite some time.

“She loves performing in front of crowds and showcasing her abilities on the sidelines during Friday night lights supporting the Jersey Shore Bulldogs,” Gwen concluded. “She hopes to continue to inspire all the younger athletes coming up and help them develop the same passion for the sport that she has grown to love.”