At the European Cheerleading Championships held in Ljubljana Slovenia on Saturday 2nd July 2011, Team UK representatives Venom were victorious, and were crowned the best in Europe by winning the Sunshine Cheer Cup.

Head coach Jill Orrell said “We are extremely proud to be part of Team UK; it was such an amazing experience to be part of the first ever Sunshine Cheer Cup and winning at first attempt in European Competition. The atmosphere was fantastic, and emotions were electric with the representatives of each Country carrying their flag singing along to we are the world! This is not only a tremendous achievement for our team it is history in the making – TEAM UK GOLD!”

It was a great learning experience for the girls to be able to watch how the different teams prepare and train for such a big competition. They had the opportunity to exchange tips and identify new warm up techniques, particularly with Team Germany who shared the same hotel. The Team had wonderful experience and were well supported by friends and family who travelled from the UK to cheer them on. The highest accolade was paid to the Team when the President of ECA, Vojko Korosec, made a special trip to the hotel to congratulate Venom Stunt & Cheer on their winning performance.

Venom were thrilled to be competing along side the best teams in Europe. They have devoted considerable time and effort training solidly since qualifying at the UKCA Nationals in March to perfect their new routine. This is the first time a Team from the United Kingdom have won first place at the European Championships – a fantastic result!

Brittne ea Bliss, the Venom Captain said “We are so excited to have won the European Sunshine Cup! It’s a beautiful crystal Cup that is very precious to us all. We feel really proud and are like one big family, cheerleading is our life, we are all best friends and we trust each other; our bases and flyers need that trust, I think this gives us the confidence that is needed with our stunts. We are so proud! “.

To all those who were involved in the preparation of the Team and to the athletes themselves, we at UKCA are also proud of you …. well done!