Glitter, boots, star-studded uniforms and discipline is what the East London community have been exposed to as the South African Majorettes and Cheerleading Association (Samca) Championships drew to a close last Saturday at the Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve.
The last four days of the championships saw elite teams from all over SA give their all for the ultimate title of being crowned Champion of Champions.
According to Speaking to the Eastern Cape Majorettes and Cheerleading Association (Ecmca) treasurer Calista Stanton, the feedback about the championships had been great and encouraging.
“We had a very hands-on team which has been absolutely incredible. With a development team, such as Zimele from Mthatha, I’m very excited to see where they go in the future,” Stanton said.
Local teams, such as Phoenix Majorettes Club, Lilyfontein School and Gonubie Primary School, did well in the President’s Majorettes. Phoenix placed 10th overall in the high school section, Lilyfontein placed 5th overall while Gonubie placed 10th overall in the primary schools’ section.
Drumroll for successful EL event
Taking the coveted Champion of Champions title in the primary President’s League was Durban Junior Girls.
At high school level, Potchestroom High School for Girls took the Champion of Champions.
Durban Junior team coach Keith Alho said the biggest challenge was the field because of the last Tuesday’s rain.
“Despite everything, the girls gave a stunning performance. The team is only two years old, and now to win and be promoted to the Elites, is incredible. We have a lot of work to do,” Alho said.
Adjudication for majorettes included performance technique, artistic impression, group performance and leader performance.
Adjudicator, Marc Williams said the process is intricate and various elements are looked at, depending on the category.
“On the technical side of things, we’ve looked at movement variety, synchronisation and complexity of the march,” Williams said.
Samca president Wayne Oberem said overall, the championship went very well.
“I’ve received positive feedback about this year’s championships all round. I believe the people have gotten to know more about the sport, and hope there will be an expansion.
“We take corporate responsibility seriously, and it is important to give back to our community. By sponsoring the Samca nationals, we are giving young athletes the opportunity to take their skills to a national level,” Hemingways Casino general manager John McGregor said.
In terms of the tourism boost along the Wild Coast Jikeleza Route, it was a welcome addition for some business owners.
“I’ve received some good news with some establishments fully booked for the duration of the competition. I believe it has pushed up the route at this time of the year – this was our Christmas in June,” Wild Coast Jikeleza Association chairperson, Wendy Leppert said.
The title of Champion of Champions in both the elite primary and high categories, was taken by the St Dominics junior and senior teams.
