Last season, Newtown High School’s cheerleading team won all three of its virtual competitions. The team hopes for more success with a return to traditional, in-person championships this winter, assuming all goes as planned.

For now, the Nighthawks are set to work on their routines and cheer on the football team from the sidelines at Blue & Gold Stadium.

“We love cheering — we’re a big gameday team,” said Coach Susan Bridges, whose group will energize the crowds with their enthusiasm and hand-painted signs.

The loss of eight seniors leaves some shoes to fill, but Newtown’s coach likes her squad’s enthusiasm.

“We have a really young team, but they’re pretty fierce,” Bridges said.

The Nighthawks won the South-West Conference cheer competition in 2019 and 2020; there was no championship event last winter. Bridges and company are optimistic about a there being a chance to compete along with other teams once again. And if there is a return to the championship event, the Hawks are aiming for a win.

“That’s always the goal,” Bridges said.

“I am hopeful. I think all these athletes just need to be able to do their thing in every sport, and I hope we all get that opportunity,” Bridges said.

Captains are seniors Vicky Chop and Lauren Milligan, along with juniors Katie Daoust and Abby McManus.

Other juniors are Meaghan Temoche, Lexy Checchia, and Molly Moran; sophomores are Hannah Busillo, Hannah Guman, Rachel Szor, Rachel Chard, and Chase Sferruzzo; and freshman are Tatum Patti, Daniella Crisci, Ella Macey, Kiki Maddox, Ashley Jackson, and Elexa Talbot.

Cheerleaders are not required to wear masks during stunting and tumbling, although Bridges has had her team members wearing them in practices, she said.

The first football game is slated for Friday, September 10, when Pomperaug of Southbury comes to Blue & Gold Stadium for a 7 pm clash.

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