With only a week to go before Mid Ulster’s only cheerleading group head off to the European championships, there is certainly plenty to cheer about.
Goldrush Cheerleading group was setup by Maghera woman, Megan O’Kane back in 2014.
Over the past two years, the sport has become a popular alternative way of keeping fit for many.
With weekly classes held right across Mid Ulster, the group has close to 100 members ranging from four to 23 years-old.
Leading coach, 22 year-old Megan, a past pupil of St Patrick’s College, Maghera, fell in love with the sport while studying dance at Manchester University. During her first year she competed nationally.
Seeing a gap in the market, Megan transferred home to Ulster University. Alongside studying, Megan trained and qualified with the UK’s Cheerleading Association.
After gaining her cheerleading qualification, Megan’s dream of setting up her own cheerleading school came true.
Back in February, Goldrush qualified for the European Championships which take place in Koper, Slovenia next weekend.
18 cheerleaders along with 12 parents will leave for Slovenia on Friday.
Speaking about the past few months, Megan said it has been ‘intense.’
“The last few months have been pretty intense, there have been tears but also a lot of laughs. We are so excited about the Europeans. Everyone has worked so hard to get here. We have been training three times a week. Some of our senior members have also had exams and have had to juggle the training sessions around their work and study, so they really deserve this.”
In a bid to make the trip easier, Megan has set up an online fundraising campaign on ‘Gofundme.’
Appealing for help, she said: “All donations will go towards the kids’ expenses. We have paid for our own flights, hotels, uniforms and food. Your donations will help go towards our entry fees and our bus to the competition. We have only a few days left until we set off on our journey and we need all the extra help we can get. This is a journey of a lifetime and we would really appreciate any support.
“Fingers crossed we come home with silver wear but even if we don’t, we are just so over the moon to be given this chance,” said Megan.
If you would like to make a donation to Goldrush visit ‘Goldrush to Europeans’ on ‘Gofundme.’
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