Pom Poms and pride: A rhythm revived at Newton Primary

NEWTON Primary School in Kimberley has recently welcomed an exciting addition to its extracurricular offerings: Pom Pom dancing and cheerleading.

Under the guidance of coaches Suzane Cornelissen, Johan de la Rey, and Kaitlin Fredericks, this new initiative is fast becoming a source of pride and energy for the school community, reviving the spirit of performance and teamwork among its learners.

Reviving a beloved culture

Years ago, Newton Primary was home to the Marionettes (Trompoppies), a beloved extracurricular activity that unfortunately had to be discontinued. That absence left a noticeable void.

Now, with the introduction of Pom Poms and cheerleading, the school has reignited a platform for girls to engage in a dynamic activity that blends dance, gymnastics, athleticism, and expressive flair.

“Not every learner is drawn to traditional sports. This programme gives girls a space where they can express their individuality, explore their talents, and be part of something meaningful,” explained one of the members of the coaching team; a trio who have worked tirelessly to turn vision into reality.

The Pom Pom and Cheerleading squads are structured into two teams, each practising two hours a week with the addition of a four-hour bootcamp session once per term.

The sessions are well-planned: Pom Poms begin with a warm-up, followed by choreography, and conclude with a cooldown. Cheerleading practices include stretching, choreography, and dedicated time for stunt and skill development, elements that require both physical coordination and mutual trust.

A journey of growth

“We focus on physical development, like strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination,” the coaches shared. “But equally important is personal growth. We want our girls to build self-confidence, learn to trust their teammates, and take pride in their individuality.”

It’s been a journey of growth and resilience for the young team. The coaches have witnessed the girls push past their comfort zones, conquer fears, and develop a strong sense of accountability. “They’ve learnt the value of not letting each other down,” one of the coaches said. “That kind of responsibility can’t be taught in a classroom.”

And although challenges arose during training sessions, the payoff was more than worth it. “Our proudest moment is watching the girls deliver a stellar performance on the big day. Despite the setbacks during practices, they come together, show grit, and give it their all when it matters most.”

Currently, the team boosts school spirit by performing before major sporting events, energising both the players and the crowd. As the programme is still new to Newton Primary, the coaches hope to expand their visibility, participating in more school functions and perhaps even external events.

Aiming to compete

In terms of competitive exposure, the team are yet to make their mark, but that hasn’t stopped them from dreaming big. The introduction of the Federation of Dance Drill Cheerleading and Majorette Sport of South Africa (FDDCM) to the Northern Cape has opened exciting opportunities for local schools.

Although Newton’s girls couldn’t participate in this year’s Kimberley competition due to insufficient entries, plans are in place for a debut in 2026, with the ultimate goal of reaching Nationals in Gauteng by July next year.

Launching such a programme from the ground up was no easy feat. But the unwavering support from parents, fellow staff members, and even local businesses like Kimberley Clothing has helped turn the vision into a reality. “There are still challenges ahead,” a member of the coaching team admitted, “but we’re determined to grow and ensure our girls receive the platform and recognition they deserve.”

With their infectious energy, unwavering commitment, and the support of a passionate coaching team, the Pom Pom girls and cheerleaders of Newton Primary are not just dancers or performers; they are pioneers of a new movement, igniting pride and unity within their school community.

The journey is just beginning, but the impact they’re making is already clear for all to see.