By KEVIN TAN
alltherage@thestar.com.my

Elizabeth Ong, 16, captain of Team Vivacious from SMK (P)
St George, Penang

Following in her sister’s footstep, Elizabeth Ong is living her dream not just as a
cheerleader, but as the captain of Vivacious, a team known at Cheer for its excellent showmanship.
Why did you decide to become a cheerleader?

My sister was the one who introduced me to the sport. My
first experience with it was when I went to a cheerleading camp organised by the Cheerleading Association and Registrar of Malaysia (CHARM) in 2008. That was when I began taking cheerleading seriously.

How do you feel now you’re a cheerleader and a captain yourself?

I remember growing up watching my sister (who was also the captain of Vivacious in 2008) practising with her team and performing at competitions. I recall how amazing it felt watching the cheerleaders compete in a stadium. I was always the one watching, but now I’m doing it, it’s like a dream come
true.

How has cheerleading helped you as an individual?

Cheerleading gave me a goal in my life. I haven’t been very good in my academics, but cheerleading continues to motivate me to get
better.

What are the main challenges of being a cheerleader?

Injuries can happen when we make mistakes, and it can be quite dangerous. I am actually recovering from a fracture on my back since January, but there’s a team waiting for me, so I will just have to bear with the pain until the competition is over.”

How often do you practise?

We usually practise three to four days a week, and three to four hours a day. We also practise extra during weekends or holidays.

How has Cheer helped you as a cheerleader?

Competing in Cheer gives me added confidence. I have made many mistakes while performing in the past, but it is all worth it.