Chilton County High School’s cheerleaders had a little help keeping the crowd in high spirits during the Tigers’ game against Chelsea on Sept. 18.

More than fifty aspiring cheerleaders in grades kindergarten through sixth grade cheered from the sidelines during the game at Tiger Stadium, as the culmination of a three-day cheerleading clinic hosted by CCHS.

The clinic started Sept. 15 and lasted through Sept. 17, from 3-5 p.m. each day.

The cost to attend the clinic was $30, and participants received T-shirts in addition to the opportunity to show what they learned to fans at the varsity football game.

Varsity cheerleading sponsor Tammy Hand said the clinic serves as fundraiser for the squad, with money generated to go toward a pep rally thrown by the cheerleaders in October.

In previous years, the clinic has allowed the cheerleaders to purchase uniforms and materials for decorations, among other needs.

clinic participants learned chants, stunts, tumbling and an advanced routine from CCHS varsity and junior varsity cheerleaders.

Fifth grader Lydia Newton said this was her fourth year to participate in the clinic and that she enjoyed “everything.”

Sophomore Allie Lightsey, who served as an instructor for the second year, said learning stunts seemed to be the most enjoyable part of the clinic for the young cheerleaders.

“They come in asking when we’re going to stunt, and they leave asking when we’re going to stunt again,” Lightsey said. “I really enjoy just seeing the process of the girls grow, going from not having a clue to complex dances and routines. It’s really neat to see that.”

The clinic has become an annual tradition.

Hand said about 18 girls participated in the first year of the clinic seven years ago.

“The last three years, it’s really exploded,” said Hand, who has been the cheerleader sponsor since 1995. “This is the biggest one we’ve ever had.”