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The Goshen junior varsity and varsity cheer squads are hosting a camp this week inside the school gymnasium.

Unlike in year’s past when the Eagles would travel to Troy University or  Auburn to compete in camp, COVID-19 has forced the Eagles to host a camp this summer.

The camp began on Tuesday and it’s scheduled to conclude on Friday with a showcase for parents.

“Both JV and varsity squads are here along with our mascot,” said head coach Shelia Ballard. “The girls seem to enjoy it.”

The Eagles cheerleaders have been shut inside for the majority of spring and early summer. Being able to come together and cheer has been a nice change of pace for the Eagles despite not being able to compete at either Troy or Auburn.

“They have enjoyed learning new things,” Ballard said. “They miss the camaraderie that we have when we go to either Troy or Auburn. They miss being able to meet new girls from other squads. They do like that it’s here and they can go home at night.”

The Eagles are making sure to stay safe during the camp.

“When camp ends the coaches sanitize everyday. We sanitize the bathroom,” Ballard said. “We clean the bleachers where they were sitting along with the mats. The girls are constantly using hand sanitizer and washing their hands.

The cheerleaders are asked to stay on campus during lunch and no spectators have been allowed in during practice. They will however be on hand during Friday’s showcase.

Since they are not competing with other squads, Goshen is spending their camp learning new cheers for the fall.

“Before this summer this camp was used to compete and learn new things,” Ballard said. “We are just going to have a showcase where the girls can show their parents what they have learned during the week. They will be able to use it during pep rallies and football games.”

Friday’s showcase is scheduled for 4 p.m.