Bond University cheerleaders have danced and flipped their way to the USA after winning a World Bid at the Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation (AASCF) National Scholastic Cheer and Dance Championships.
The 'Sharkettes', a team of 12 girls who formed just four weeks ago, won their division before taking out the award for University Dance Grand Champion and securing a spot to represent Australia in the ICU World University Cheerleading Championships in Florida next year.
The girls were one of two Bond University cheer teams who flew to Sydney over the weekend, with the 'Bond Cheer Elite' co-ed team also winning their division against Sydney University and Macquarie University.
Bond University Cheerleading club president Elizabeth Halikos said the team was proud of their achievements.
"We only formed the team this semester so to win our division was incredible, but to go on to receive a World Bid was an absolute shock," she said.
"The World Bid means our team is invited to compete in the USA against the best universities from across the globe.
"There is only one University World Bid awarded in the dance category in Australia each year, so to be the recipients of that is a real honour.
"The bid means our club, Bond Cheer, are not only invited to compete in the world-wide competition, but our registration fees are partially covered - which is a huge bonus.
"This is an enormous accomplishment and we are absolutely thrilled to be given the chance to represent Australia and showcase to the world what we can do."
Bond Cheer was established in 2009 with a team of eight girls and has now grown to more than 60 members.
There are currently three teams from beginners to advanced - 'Sharkies', 'Sharkettes' and 'Bond Cheer Elite'.
All three teams are actively involved in the community, cheering for teams including the Bond University Rugby and Bond AFL, as well as participating in events with the V8 Supercars and Rugby Sevens.
Bond Cheer's next competition is the AASCF All Star Cheer and Dance National Championship held from November 27-30 at the Gold Coast Convention Centre.
The competition will see more than 1,300 routines performed by 7,500 competitors from universities around Australia and New Zealand.
Ms Hailkos said her competitive teams were highly dedicated, training a minimum of four hours per week, and it was great to see them rewarded for their efforts.
"I could not be more proud to be a member and president of this amazing club," she said.
"We will be doing some incredible things over the next few months and we hope to see plenty of supporters at the November competition on the Gold Coast.
"Next stop...USA."
ENDS