Fairmont State University Cheerleading will be hosting their annual youth cheer clinic and this year some changes have been made to help make the camp even more successful and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Coach Samantha Eakle said while the camp is usually held the week of homecoming, they decided to make it earlier this year on October 12. Each child who attends will receive two tickets for family members to attend the game. A change for the age has also been made, anyone age three or older is invited to participate in the camp.

“We want to be able to truly focus on the kids and not be so busy with our appearances and supporting other homecoming activities,” she said. “We want this camp to be about the children and giving them an experience to have a different connection with other kids. We want them to learn some of the techniques and trades of cheerleading.

The camp is $45 and includes a t-shirt, bow and lunch. The day begins with registration at 8:30 a.m. in the Feaster Center. Students will then do a meet and greet and stretch. From 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. they will learn sideline cheers and skills training. After lunch, campers will review the cheers and head out to the field. Kick-off is 1 p.m. and children can be picked up at halftime.

“Each team has different preparations for college game day. For us it’s practice, dedication, hard work and the ability to be physically, mentally and emotionally strong as well as being flexible and versatile,” Eakle said. “Having this camp allows us and the girls to loosen up a little bit and enjoy the process of game day a little differently, we see it through the eyes of these children. All of the cheerleaders are great with kids and look forward to getting to teach them each year.”

The camp is held every year with the hopes of making a difference in the children’s lives through cheerleading, she said. Each year they have returning campers and new faces, the cheerleaders look forward to seeing everyone.

Deadline for pre-registration is Sunday, October 6. Late registrations and walk-ins are welcome but participants cannot be guaranteed a camp t-shirt and/or hair bow in their correct size.

To register please e-mail Samantha Eakle at seakle14@gmail.comor Nicole Geary at nmgeary2015@aol.com.