TALLMADGE, OHIO (June 12, 2009)"American Elite AllStars of Ohio this week will lead the
first-ever cheerleading program at "The Next Level" 2009 Football Camp, June 17-20, at Kent State University's Dix Stadium in Kent, Ohio.
Run by SPAN Ministries and Baunfire Athletics, The Next Level is a free flag-football camp in which participants, ages nine to 14, hone their athletic skills and abilities under the guidance and instruction of college and professional athletes, while simultaneously receiving mentoring that encourages them to go to the next level in their lives, off the playing field. The camp experience also offers a one-year-long mentoring program. This year, cheerleaders were added to the camp, recognizing that it is indeed an athletic discipline and expanding the camp's outreach to young women. Approximately 125-150 campers are expected to attend.
"We're excited about this year's camp," said Frank Smith, vice president of Baunfire Athletics. For us, this is an annual opportunity to connect with area youth in a way that elevates their spiritual, mental and physical well-being. Each year, we receive so much more than we give!"
Smith said the decision to add cheerleading to this year's camp was affirmed by American Elite's willingness to participate. "You cannot find a training program that combines disciplined training, athletic integrity, competitive performance, and character development as successfully as American Elite does anywhere in Northeast Ohio.
"We are so excited to be a part of The Next Level experience," says American Elite Coach
Wanda Whipkey. "We want participants to know that everyone"regardless of age or physical condition"has something to cheer about and our goal is to help campers identify, realize and develop that potential."
American Elite AllStars this year celebrates five years of training in the cheer, dance, gymnastics and child fitness disciplines. With three locations in Northeast Ohio--Tallmadge, North Ridgeville and Solon--the program endeavors to become the breakthrough standard-bearer in the burgeoning spirit industry through: safety, certified education and training excellence, inclusion, character-building and athletic integrity. From its annual "Children's Cheer Classic" which raises funds for Akron Children's Hospital's Reach Out and Read Program, to the awarding of college scholarships, Elite seeks to develop empowered athletes who become empowered leaders. For more information, call 330-633-3160 or visit www.AEAOhio.com.