PIECHS cheerleader Issabel Cuevas traveled to England to participate in the
London New Year’s Day Parade.
By ARABELLA SERRATA
Special to the PRESS
Port Isabel Early College High School [PIECHS] student Issabel Cuevas recently traveled overseas to represent Port Isabel [PI] and perform at the London New Year’s Day Parade, an annual event that brings people from around the world together to kick off the New Year.
Cuevas was one of a few Rio Grande Valley [RGV] students representing South Texas at the parade.
“It made me very proud to see her represent our cheer squad. Especially because I know she loves cheer, and she’s loved it since she was a little girl,” said Gisella Gonzalez, Cheer Coach at Port Isabel Early College
High School.
Cuevas has been a cheerleader for three years on junior and regular varsity teams. She also cheered in middle school.
“In the three years I’ve coached her, I have seen her ability, technique and confidence grow stronger,” said Gonzalez.
As a coach, Gonzalez ensures that the cheerleaders “set a good example as spirit leaders” and maintain school spirit at all events.
“I take pride in ensuring that they perform well for our athletes and our community,” said Gonzalez. “It’s a lot of decision-making, but I get great ideas and feedback from the cheerleaders and my junior varsity
cheer coach, Denise Griner.”
Gonzalez explained that the cheerleaders learn new material at cheer camp during summer vacation, helping them grow even when school is out. Cuevas attended camp at Round Rock, a three-day program that
teaches new dances and stunts. On the last day of camp, Cuevas performed in front of other cheerleaders and earned All-American Recognition.
“I hope Issabel learns that when you love doing something and you work hard at it, it can take you places you’d never imagine it would go. Some opportunities are once in a lifetime,” said Gonzalez.
Cuevas called the parade an “amazing” time. She was sorted into the group called “The Greatest Show,” and spent the early hours of parade day practicing before the Parade officially began.
“Being at the London Parade and representing Port Isabel was an unforgettable experience. The excitement and energy of the parade made me feel proud to represent Port Isabel and reminded me of the strength and
unity of our school,” said Cuevas
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