A high-flying local cheerleading organization, Phoenix Cheer Athletics (PCA), has received a major grant from the provincial government. As part of the Building Sustainable Communities fund, PCA will be given the handsome sum of $75,000. This is the maximum amount of money allowed to be rewarded to a single organization.
PCA says the money will go towards the purchase of equipment and furniture for the new training facility which they’re poised to move into this this summer.
The program is based in Ste. Anne, although their athletes come all across southeastern Manitoba. There are currently more than 100 athletes in PCA, some as young as five and others over the age of 30. The all-star program offers competitive, prep and recreational cheerleading, preschool programs, tumbling, and pom teams.
“This grant could not have come at a better time,” says Jolene Chuhai, Chair of the PCA board of directors. “As we move into our new building in Ste. Anne, we can purchase the equipment from our investors, purchase state-of-the art equipment for our coaches and athletes, and create a safe and welcoming environment for all of our cheer families.”
PCA was formed last year when its predecessor, Scorpions Elite Cheer, abruptly shut down. Faced with no other options to practice their sport, a group of parents, coaches, and athletes stepped up to launch PCA. Largely as a result of PCA’s contributions to cheerleading, the sport has grown strong roots in the region.
“Cheer was recognized as an official sport in Canada last year and has just been given the same status here in Manitoba,” says Chuhai. “This opens up so many opportunities for our athletes as we continue to develop our programs and build our gym.”
