Cheerleaders: The Derby Ravens

For the past 5 years, the Derby Ravens have gone from strength to strength progressing our name within the UK Cheerleading society. Originally set up to support our university's American Football team, the Derby Braves, the team has become competitive in our own right, with each years committee working hard to establish ourselves as one of the fastest improving teams of the UK. Through the teams competitive history, we have brought home over 20 trophies, being national champions in All-girl university Advanced Cheer, and University Pom Dance. In the past we have competed with UKCA, and the 2011/2012 season will also see us branching out into BCA.

Each year, alongside attending 3 different competitions and participating in over 10 categories, we immerse ourselves in charity work, community projects and performances at many clubs, events, and even guests spots at the Pride Park stadium supporting the Derby County Football team. We also spend our Sundays traveling around the country supporting the Braves at their various games. One of the highlights of our year is the DAB bowl which raises money for charity, taking place within the British University American Football League season, which is our biggest performance of the year - as well as a great social occasion involving all of the Athletic Union.

As a university team, we take our sport and courses seriously, but still try to have fun. Experience isn't necessary as we have a team of dedicated coaches and choreographers working to make us the best we can be.

The University of Derby Cheerleading squad prides ourselves in academic and sporting achievement, but also gives its members the opportunity to add to improve their professional profile - employers look for life skills we provide like business skills, charity work and qualifications in sporting safety, first aid and coaching. But overall, our main emphasis is to give our members the chance to try something new, or carry on training in something they are familiar with, whilst having fun and meeting new friends.

Becky McAllister, Ravens President

If you are interested in finding out more about the Ravens, visit their website.