By Kevin Shannahan

Natchitoches Parish is well represented with the Cheerleading Squads of St. Mary’s and Lakeview High Schools joining 300 of their fellow high school cheerleaders at NSU’s campus for this week’s Cheer Camp put on by the Universal Cheerleader’s Association. The UCA teachers, all current or former college cheerleaders, gave expert instruction on cheers, routines, presentation and stunts-all in a high energy environment. The different squads competed in various areas with one of the most prized awards being the UCA Banana, which is awarded to the most enthusiastic team each day. The 16 teams at the camp arrived Sunday and left Wednesday after giving a show of their new skills for friends and family.