Superstars win hearts for Capital Challenge

All Star Victory Superstars, from left Elyzah Warda, Elle Tripae, Olivia Chapman (coach), Anna Robins, Julia Rowe (coach), Christian Martin and Jack Rowe.

Local cheerleading team the All Star Victory Superstars, took to the stage at the Cheerbrandz Capital Challenge competition at Te Rauparaha Arena this month in a New Zealand first.

Victory Superstars is the first official special abilities cheerleading team in New Zealand, with members ranging from 14 to 23 years.

The team arose after a Porirua City Council staff member just back from the 2015 Special Olympics asked All Star Victory to start a team.

All Star Victory had the perfect coach for the job in Kapiti College student Olivia Chapman who had already had training in special needs learning and a network of special needs families.

Olivia got the group started and has since been joined by another local, Julia Rowe.

"They do an amazing job together," team chaperone Vicki Rowe said.

The team has come a long way in just six months, adaptations are made to to meet differing abilities, and everyone gets to shine and learn.

With no assistants on stage, the Superstars performed their two-minute routine in front of hundreds of spectators and the whole routine went smoothly.

"The atmosphere when they got up on stage was incredible," Vicki said.

"Every single person got behind them, clapping, and cheering them on.

"I don't think there was a dry eye in the arena.

"They definitely won the hearts of the crowd that day."

The team trains in the All Star Victory Gym at 10 Manchester St Paraparaumu and has openings for more members.