Cheerleading competition season is not until the winter but Newtown High School’s squad will, as always, be in the spotlight — under the Blue & Gold Stadium lights — throughout the fall.

The reigning South-West Conference, State, and New England Champions will continue to be hard at work sharpening skills and routines in practices while having fun and showing off much of their skills and athleticism along the sideline and on the turf at halftime during football games.

“We have a great mix of returning athletes and new faces who are bringing a lot of energy, talent, and determination. Our goal is to continue raising the bar, pushing ourselves to grow, and representing our school with pride. It’s going to be another exciting season,” Coach Susan Bridges said.

Captains are Abi Gonzalez, Leticia DeOliveira, Mel Lordeiro, and Isabella Walder. Avery McKendry and Summer Wilson return for their final season with the Hawks. Both are strong bases and positive upbeat teammates, Bridges said.

“We are also fortunate to have a very talented, strong sophomore class. The majority anchored our competition team last winter. We look for big things from these athletes,” Bridges said. “Cheerleading is unique because it’s really a two-season sport. In the fall, our focus is on the sidelines — cheering for football, supporting our school, volunteering in our community, and building our skills as a team. At the same time, we’re preparing for the winter, which is our official competition season. Coming off such a huge year last season, we’re excited to carry that momentum forward, keep growing as a team, and aim even higher this year.”

Football season begins Friday, September 12, when New Canaan visits NHS at 7 pm. The cheerleaders also travel to support the Nighthawks on the road. They will continue to cheer when basketball tips off in December — and then it will be time for defense of those titles.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.