Morecambe cheerleaders backflipping their way to international gold

Founded by head coach Faye Winder in 2009, the popular Morecambe-based cheerleading group have qualified for the pinnacle of their sport: the Summit Championships 2025, held in Orlando, Florida at the start of May.

Literally flying high after years of dedicated training, the team (previously knowns as Bay Stormers) qualified in both under and over-16 categories, triggering a massive logistical and fundraising operation to get 38 athletes, coaches and proud parents across the Atlantic.

Describing “the ultimate goal for every cheerleader”, assistant head coach Lauren Potter reveals the determination that’s got them to this stage: “Because places are so sought-after, qualifying competitions are fiercely contested. Missing out in previous years by just one point or place was galling, but we used it to spur us on and keep improving.

“We’ve been to qualifying competitions in Bournemouth and Barcelona, and where did we succeed? Blackpool! With only 6 team places up for grabs, to win two of them in the North West was really special.”

The team soon realised that qualifying was just the start. As well as perfecting routines capable of beating the best in the world, entry, travel, hotel, equipment and training costs equate to around two thousand pounds per participant. With proud families paying for travel, one of the team’s most enthusiastic longstanding sponsors, Lancaster-based accountants ICS Accounting, is leading the charge to help with the rest of the costs.

“Flying out a week before to acclimatise and focus, we’ll be hiring gym space over there for at least 3 training sessions,” says Lauren. “At this level, it’s all about a united, professional look, which means making sure every uniform, shoelace, bow and jacket is perfectly fitted, matched and eye-catching. We couldn’t do it without our incredible parents and sponsors”.

Currently joined by eight other sponsors: Atkinson Vos, Bay Building Services, EDF, Nisa Beach Stores, Peterson Port Management and Logistics, The Transformation Trainer, TVS Supply Chains Solutions, and Wrenman Strategic Land, Colin Thompson, ICS Accounting Commercial Director, says sponsors get as much out of it as they put in.

“Who wouldn’t want your message or brand associated with such a great example of inclusion, dedication and achievement? But to ICS, and our fellow sponsors too, it’s much more than seeing your name on the back of a jacket, it’s being part of such a fantastic, positive and inspirational enterprise.

“Cheerleading is so good for mental health, confidence, social connection and wellbeing, as well as physical and health benefits. Stormers Elite genuinely embody cheerleading’s inclusivity, welcoming anyone of any size, shape or age; although having me on the squad might prove a challenge too far!”

While very much a working holiday, the travellers will make the most of their rest days to explore and enjoy (if nerves allow). For some, it’s their first time overseas, and an special reward for those who have been part of the Stormers “family” for over a decade. Lauren and Faye, plus coach and head fundraiser Natalie Hughes, will continue training, organising and rattling the bucket until the moment their plane leaves the tarmac.

“To be representing our home town, internationally, in the heart of the entertainment industry is a dream come true, and we’re determined to get the crowd cheering for Morecambe! The girls might be the ones doing the backflips, but if we bring back a prize, I don’t think any of our feet will be touching the ground!”

To enquire about supporting Stormers Elite’s participation in the Summit Championships 2025, email [email protected]