By Jessica Eblie
Twelve-year-old Molly Beachell is flying high after helping her cheerleading team capture a grand champion title at a major provincial competition last month.
Beachell is a high flyer with the Central Cheer U16 Icons, who were named overall grand champions at the 2026 Winter Riot cheer competition in Portage la Prairie. The two-day event drew more than 50 teams from across Manitoba and Ontario.
The Icons impressed judges with a high-energy routine that combined choreography, stunts and tumbling. Teams were evaluated on overall execution, precision, coordination and stamina.
As a high flyer, Beachell performs one of the most physically demanding roles on the team, relying on strength, balance and timing as she is lifted and thrown into the air during advanced stunts.
Beachell has been involved in cheerleading for five years. Her favourite skill is a “full,” a backflip performed with straight legs and a full twisting motion in the air. Beyond the technical elements, she said cheerleading has helped build confidence and mental focus, particularly when performing under pressure.
Teamwork plays a central role in the sport, with routines requiring precise timing and coordination across stunts, tumbling passes and dance sequences.
She added that teamwork is what makes cheerleading truly unique. “When we all work together, it’s amazing how everything comes together perfectly.”
The Winter Riot victory came with more than just a banner. The team earned a $5,000 prize, which will go toward travel costs for the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) All-Star National Championship in Houston, Texas, scheduled for February.
The Icons currently practice twice a week, with plans to increase training as the season progresses.
Looking ahead to nationals, the team’s goal is to achieve a “zero” — a clean routine with no deductions. The routine will also be adjusted for U.S. competition, with added choreography and restructured elements to meet USA Cheer standards.
Beachell said she hopes her success encourages other young athletes in the Interlake region to try cheerleading, noting it is both physically demanding and rewarding.
Beachell is looking forward to the rest of the season. “I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved so far.”
With the Winter Riot competition behind them, the Icons will next turn their focus to the Manitoba provincial championships in March. The Icons will also be aiming for a top spot.
