—Submitted by Jill Ulle

The Novi High School Varsity and Junior Varsity Pompon teams took top honors at the 2012 Mid American Pompon Summer Camp at Davenport University in Grand Rapids held June 21-24. Both teams were overall Grand Champions for their exceptional performances of new pompon routines learned at camp and an original routine. In addition, the seniors earned first place for their circus-themed high kick routine.

The camp was attended by more than 270 girls from 17 pompon teams from throughout Michigan. The three-day camp included learning new pompon routines and a kick routine, team bonding, evening evaluations, special-themed days and just-for-fun routines, plus the opportunity for varsity team members to try out for the Mid American Pompon All Star Team. The All Star team is an elite group which performs at national and international events each year. 

The varsity pompon team members who attended camp include captains Delaney Ulle and Kailey Oppat; Gillian Autterson, Mackenzie Betts, Yianna Bordeau, Bailey Borycki, Amy Cao, Madison Cojei, Lauren Dipaola, Kelly Dubay, Olivia Ghannam, Marisa Giampa, Lexie Giragosian, Bailee Kiel, Angela Lazzara, Jessica Leone, Amy Liang, Morgan Shepherd, Drew Thomasson, Emma Weil and Renee Weil. They are led by head coach Erin Bartos and Elyse Bartos.

The JV pompon team members who attended camp include captains Karla De La Cruz and Rachel Estfan; Erica Borst, Lauren Chapman, Skylar Courtney, Emily Dann, Alicia Desormeau, Kaitlyn Kotcher, Chandler Link, Lauren Miller and Ivy Oma. They are coached by Kayla Koch.

The following varsity team members made the Mid American Pompon All Star Team: Mackenzie Betts, Olivia Ghannam, Marisa Giampa, Jessica Leone, Amy Liang, Kailey Oppat, Morgan Shepherd, Drew Thomasson, Delaney Ulle, Emma Weil and Renee Weil.

The award-winning team will host a Pompon Summer Kids Clinic for girls in first through eighth grade on Saturday, August 18. Participants will learn a pompon routine and kickline along with basic pom and dance skills. For more information and to register, visit the Novi School District's Summer Camps website.