Big numbers, big spirit at Albany Mini Cheer Camp

Albany’s annual cheer camp brought excitement and energy to the high school gym this week, as 62 young girls from ages 3 through sixth grade participated in three days of cheer, chants, and themed dress-up fun.

Held Monday through Wednesday, the camp introduced girls to the fundamentals of cheerleading while giving them the opportunity to work alongside Albany junior high and high school cheerleaders. This year’s camp was coordinated by cheer sponsor Lauren Peacock, who previously served in the role from 2014 to 2017, along with co-coordinator Ashlyn Bevel.

In addition to traditional camp activities, a new element was introduced for 2025: a special halftime performance during the first Albany Lions football game against Stamford on August 29. All campers—from the youngest three-year-olds to sixth graders—will perform together on the field, joined by the junior high, JV, and varsity cheer squads.

“There will be close to 90 girls out there performing together at halftime,” Peacock said. “The high school girls are helping with stunts and it’s coming together really well.”

A final parent performance was held at the end of camp Wednesday morning.

Throughout the week, girls participated in themed dress-up days, including tie-dye and crazy hair day, Hawaiian day, and red-and-white spirit day wearing camp shirts. Peacock noted that the turnout of 62 girls was right on par with past years.

Afternoon sessions were also held during the week for the junior high and high school cheerleaders, where the squads rehearsed cheers and chants and worked on signs for the gym. Head cheerleader Mimi Ivy led those efforts with the younger cheerleaders.

Peacock said additional practice will be scheduled before the halftime performance, with details to be sent to parents in the coming weeks.