Valley Cheer Elite Triumphs at D2 Summit and Pays Tribute to Former Cheerleader
Earlier this month, Valley Cheer Elite (VCE), a vibrant cheerleading team from the Rio Grande Valley, made headlines by winning the prestigious D2 Summit competition in Orlando, Florida. The D2 Summit is a globally recognized event that draws top cheerleading teams from around the world, showcasing their skills in a high-stakes contest. For VCE, the victory was not merely a triumph of skill but a poignant tribute to a beloved former team member, Avery Makenna, who tragically lost her life in an accident at the tender age of eight.
Honoring Avery Makenna
In a heartfelt display of camaraderie and remembrance, Valley Cheer Elite dedicated their win to Avery Makenna. Avery was remembered as an exceptionally talented cheerleader who embodied spirit and enthusiasm. Her untimely death in 2015 left a profound impact on her teammates and the community. “I was just praying like please don’t be second, and they didn’t call us for second, and I remember feeling so much excitement,” shared Giselle Juarez, a current member of VCE, capturing the raw emotion and exhilaration of the victory.
Avery’s mother, April Ortiz, expressed gratitude towards the team’s tribute, saying, “Avery I always say was wise beyond her years. I like to say and think and give them hope and give myself hope that she was with them and she’s a part of their big win.” The team’s gesture went beyond mere dedication; they named a team after her, “Makenna Code Red,” ensuring her spirit continues to inspire new generations of cheerleaders.
Community and Team Spirit
The Rio Grande Valley community, known for its close-knit relationships and supportive spirit, has rallied around VCE’s recent triumph. Alex Cano, owner and head coach of Valley Cheer Elite, emphasized the importance of the team’s connection to Avery. “We feel very connected to her name, that when the kids go out there and perform, they’re not just representing the Valley or the gym, but they have a huge name to carry on,” Cano remarked, highlighting the depth of commitment his team holds—not just to the sport but also to its legacy.
The spirit surrounding the victory has reverberated across South Texas, fostering a sense of pride among Valley residents. The cheer team’s success story resonates with the community, as it symbolizes resilience, teamwork, and remembrance, aligning with the broader cultural values of the region.
A Broader Context in South Texas
The victory at the D2 Summit comes amid other notable developments in the region, underscoring an ongoing narrative of growth and resilience in the Valley. Simultaneously, Valley residents are witnessing critical investments in infrastructure, such as Alton’s $8 million drainage project aimed at addressing long-standing issues of stagnant water affecting areas like Jefferson Avenue. These initiatives reflect a dynamic region committed to meeting the evolving needs of its communities.
Parallel to this narrative, the weather forecast for the Rio Grande Valley showcases scattered thunderstorms with temperatures in the 90s, posing a reminder of the natural elements Valley residents regularly adapt to. Weather updates, accessible through the free KRGV FIRST WARN 5 Weather app, offer necessary preparedness tools to the community, reinforcing resilient living within the RGV.
Looking Towards the Future
VCE’s victory and tribute to Avery Makenna signify more than just a cheerleading accomplishment; they embody the essence of community bonds and enduring spirits. As the Valley continues to navigate both challenges and successes, stories like these provide vital rays of hope and inspiration.
The implications of such victories extend into future opportunities for youth engagement, team sponsorships, and support from Valley residents and businesses, potentially catalyzing further growth in the region’s reputation as a nurturer of athletic excellence.
In closing, the narrative of Valley Cheer Elite’s recent win at the D2 Summit transcends the immediate sphere of competitive success. It serves as a vessel for collective memory, a testament to shared dreams, and a powerful reminder of how personal tragedy can transform into enduring inspiration. In the heart of South Texas, where community interest runs deep, such stories are fundamental to the local impact, reminding us all of the strength found in unity and shared purpose.
