Albany squads go ‘All-In’ at NCA cheer camp

Albany High School cheerleaders wrapped up a three-day NCA home camp June 22–24, with both varsity and junior varsity squads participating in 22 hours of instruction.

Led by a National Cheerleaders Association instructor, the camp emphasized game day experience, sideline spirit, jumps, stunts, and team building. Cheerleaders stayed together for the duration of camp, creating what sponsor Lauren Peacock described as “a great bonding experience that helped set the tone for the year.”

Five of the 14 members of the varsity and JV squads were nominated for NCA All-American, with Mimi Ivy and Hailey Gleitz receiving the award for 2025.

The team earned all superior blue ribbons for cheer evaluation, band dance evaluation, and chant evaluation. Overall team recognitions included technical excellence and a Herkie team award.

In addition to formal training, the group completed a cheer camp scavenger hunt around Albany, taking pictures with landmarks and local figures — including the previous Fandangle director, a coach with the most playoff wins in Texas, a hole-in-one marker, the city limit sign, and “the comfiest places to get clothes in town.”

“We’ve talked a lot about the NCA’s theme for the year –  All-In – and how our cheerleaders can demonstrate that mindset throughout the school year in their leadership and school spirit,” Peacock said. “After some well-deserved rest, they’ll be ready to lead the way.”

Varsity cheerleaders for 2025-26 include Mimi Ivy (head cheerleader), Finlee Brown, Hattie Fikes, Charley Flowers, Tatum Grady, Ashlyn Miller, Madi Parrott, and Maddie Stapp.

JV squad members are Tara Cauble, Carsyn Clegg, Avery Gleitz, Hailey Gleitz, Kynlee Milligan, and Haiden Niell.

The program is directed by Peacock and Ashlyn Bevel.