Two varsity cheerleaders from Oak Harbor High School were part of an elite group invited to perform at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida earlier this month.

Senior Cassidy Gore and junior Dylan Roberts participated in the 2022 Varsity Spirit Spectacular, where they kicked off their holiday season by performing in a parade at the park, alongside other talented cheerleaders and dancers from across the country.

“Meeting people from many states all over the country was an amazing experience,” said Gore, who has been a cheerleader for four years. “Performing at Disney World in Florida was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity I will always remember.”

Varsity Spirit, a division of Varsity Brands, is a global company producing cheer, dance and band apparel. Cheerleaders and dancers are selected for the Spectacular from among the captains, co-captains and officers who stand out at Varsity Spirit summer camps that take place all over the nation.

“We are thrilled that these excellent athletes will have the chance to perform and experience our Special Events in Orlando, Florida,” said Varsity Spirit President Bill Seely. “We are honored to provide them a one-of-a-kind opportunity.”

The athletes spent Nov. 17-21 in Florida. Roberts, who is in her third year as a cheerleader, called it a “magical experience.”

“From meeting and collaborating with other captains from all over the country to representing our school in Disney World’s Holiday Parade, it was a memorable experience I will carry through my life,” she said.

Photo provided Cassidy Gore, left, and Dylan Roberts start off their holiday season by performing in the 2022 Varsity Spirit Spectacular at Disney World Resort in Florida.