This fall, 68 cheerleaders will represent Newtown across four teams — D8, D10, D12, and D14 — as they prepare to compete throughout Connecticut and beyond. By getting an early start this summer, athletes have had extra time to learn their routines, build skills, and develop teamwork before the competition season begins in late September.

"Our early start has put us in a great position heading into the season," Vice President of Newtown Youth Cheer Kristen Keil said. "Our athletes have worked incredibly hard this summer, and the excitement and energy at practice have been amazing. We can't wait to see what these teams accomplish this season."

The season opens with three local competitions:

*Western Fun Competition — September 26 at Torrington High School *CT Spirit Fun Competition — October 4 at Shelton High School.

*SPIRIT CT Local Championships — October 10 at Fairfield High School.

The D10, D12, and D14 teams will then continue their postseason at the Connecticut State Championships on October 31. Teams that earn a top-three finish in their divisions at States will advance to the Regional Championships at University of Rhode Island on November 14, with the opportunity to qualify for the National Cheerleading Championships, held December 1-5 at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Fla.

Before the postseason begins, Newtown Youth Cheer will host its annual Friends & Family Night on Thursday, October 8 at NYA Sports & Fitness. Beginning at 8:15 pm on the turf field, each team will perform its competition routine one final time before heading to the SPIRIT CT Local Championships. The event is free and open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and show their support for the athletes.

The program is also welcoming its youngest future cheerleaders with the return of the Hawklings Cheer Fundamentals Program. Open to children in kindergarten through third grade, the five-week instructional program introduces participants to the basics of cheerleading in a fun, positive environment while helping them build confidence, coordination, and teamwork.

Registration for the Hawklings program is open. Families interested in learning more about Newtown Youth Cheer or registering for the upcoming fundamentals program can visit newtownyouthcheer.isportz.co.

With months of preparation already underway and another talented group of athletes taking the mat this fall, Newtown Youth Cheer is looking forward to an exciting and successful 2026 season.