Newcomers and returning cheerleaders alike will be stepping in and up to help lead Newtown High School’s squad, traditionally one of the best in the South-West Conference. There are a lot of returnees in the lineup but it is still a young team this fall.

The Nighthawks graduated only two team members, but both were key components in routines — Vicky Chop and Lauren Milligan, both of whom are competing in college. This year, there are just two seniors once again: Captains Katie Daoust and Abby McManus.

Newtown placed second in the South-West Conference championships a year ago and the Hawks again are striving to be competitive at the finish.

They bring back juniors Chase Sfruzzo, Rachel Szor, Hannah Busillo, and Hannah Guman. A dozen freshmen are here to find their spots and make their marks on the mats once competition season rolls around in the winter months.

“We’re building a team. We’re heavy on underclassmen,” Coach Susan Bridges said. “We’re working on team building, team unity — that builds a stronger team.

“It’s a young team. There’s so much potential here. We’ve had a really great preseason,” Bridges added.

The Hawk cheerleaders will be along the sidelines of football games and out on the field at halftime showing off some of their stunts throughout the fall while honing their skills and working on routines in practices.

“I am looking forward to it. I can’t wait,” Bridges said.

Things get going when Newtown’s football team hosts Greenwich at Blue & Gold Stadium on Friday, September 9, at 7 pm.

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