A talented 13-year-old cheerleader from Swindon is preparing to compete on the international stage while also inspiring younger athletes through her coaching achievements.
Daisy, a pupil at Lawn Manor Academy in Swindon, will travel to Barcelona with 17 teammates from Swindon Lightning Cheerleading Club to compete at the Future Cheer European Championships 2026 on 30 and 31 May.
The squad will perform their routine, Aurora, against teams from across the UK and Europe in what marks one of the biggest moments yet in Daisy’s 11 years in cheerleading.
Daisy said, “I love being part of the team at cheer and that I’ve made lots of friends doing it. I train every day and really enjoy learning new skills and performing with the squad.”
Her dedication has seen her progress quickly through the sport. After competing at Level 1 last season, Daisy now performs at Level 4, where athletes showcase advanced skills including tumbling, stunting, layouts, X outs and dance routines.
Earlier this year, Daisy and her teammates travelled to Germany for an international competition, where they secured an impressive fifth-place finish. Closer to home, she recently performed at half-time during a match at Swindon Town F.C..
Alongside competing, Daisy has also discovered a passion for coaching younger cheerleaders. After recently completing a coaching course, she has been helping younger athletes build confidence and develop their skills.
At the recent Showdown Elite competition in Great Malvern, Daisy coached a younger team made up mainly of children under 14, who won first place in their category before going on to claim the overall Grand Champs title for the entire competition.
“I really enjoy coaching and helping younger cheerleaders do well and enjoy themselves,” Daisy added. “It’s amazing seeing them improve and have fun.”
Daisy’s own team also secured first place in their category at the same competition with the Aurora routine they will now perform in Barcelona.
Russell Langdown, Headteacher at Lawn Manor Academy, said, “We are incredibly proud of Daisy and everything she has achieved through her dedication, determination and hard work. It is especially inspiring to see Daisy not only succeeding in something she loves, but also encouraging and coaching younger cheerleaders to develop their confidence and skills.
“We wish Daisy and the entire Swindon Lightning squad the very best of luck as they travel to Barcelona to compete in the Future Cheer European Championships.”
Lawn Manor Academy is part of the Ascend Learning Trust.
