By BAKANG MOKOTO
1 May 2025- Four talented young athletes from the North West have returned home triumphant after making history at the International Cheer Union (ICU) World Championships in Orlando, USA. Larona Pooe (13) fromSunrise View Secondary School, Nicoleen Maluleke and Tshiamo Nkele, both learners from Grenswag Hoerskool, and Oratile Mmeti from Geelhoutpark High School, all hailing from Rustenburg, were part of the first-ever South African youth all-girls cheerleading team to compete at the prestigious global event.
The North West Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation spokesperson, Shuping
Sebolecwe said South African team, which included these exceptional North West athletes,
achieved an impressive fifth-place at the ICU World Championships 2025, which took
place from April 23rd to 25th, 2025. Sebolwcwe said their remarkable achievement on the world stage marks a significant milestone for cheerleading in South Africa.
“The journey to the world championships for the four participants began in 27 April 2024, through their club based at Tlhabane West Primary School. Their dedication and skill propelled them through the regional finals held at Klerksdorp High School on 8 June 2024, and at Lahoff Primary School on 20 July 2024.
“Following their success at the regional level, they advanced to the provincial event and subsequently to the national competition, where they were selected to represent South Africa,” he said.
Sebolecwe further said adding to the celebratory homecoming, the team was welcomed by the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton Mackenzie, at OR Tambo International Airport
this morning.
Meanwhile, the Chief Director of Sports & Recreation for the North West Province, George Marindi expressed his pride and support, stating the provincial government is incredibly excited to have been able to assist these talented young individuals in their journey to represent South Africa on this prestigious global platform. Their success at the ICU World Championships is a testament to their hard work and dedication, starting from their local club.
Marindi said the Department of Sports & Recreation in the North West Province played a crucial role in enabling the athletes’ participation by covering all associated costs, including attire, flight tickets, registration fees, training facilities, and meals. He said this support underscores the department’s commitment to fostering youth development and recognizing sporting excellence within the province.
“The ICU World Championships is the pinnacle of international cheerleading, showcasing the dynamic blend of dance, gymnastics, and acrobatics that defines the sport.
“Teams from across the globe perform intricate choreographed routines featuring stunts, tumbling and cheerchants. The achievements of Larona, Nicoleen, Tshiamo, and Oratile serve as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes across the North West and highlight the growing prominence of cheerleading in South Africa.
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