Robert Toombs Christian Academy Juniors, Payton Nance and Hannah Herndon spent their Christmas break in Orlando, Florida performing during halftime at the 2018 Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus Bowl. The girls were in Orlando for a total of four days to learn a routine and practice for the halftime show. The event took place on New Year’s Day and included over 500 cheerleaders from around the country.

Over the summer, R.T.C.A. cheerleaders attended a National Cheerleaders Association Cheer Camp at Georgia Southern University. Six total Crusaders were nominated to try out for the prestigious, All-American Award. However, only five girls were awarded the All-American Cheerleader Title and Payton was among the five girls. She also received the Leadership Award and was asked to join the “Be A Leader” Campaign. Those awarded the All-American Cheerleader titles were allowed to chose from the following events to perform at: Thanksgiving Parade events in Pennsylvania &/or Texas; or the New Years events in London, England &/or The Citrus Bowl in Orlando. Because Payton had been awarded the 2016 FCA All-American title, which included a performance in the Peach Bowl in Atlanta, she chose the 2018 Citrus Bowl knowing she would enjoy another Bowl experience!

Hannah Herndon was unable to attend the summer GSU cheer camp but joined team mate, Payton, in Orlando to simply take in the sights. Upon arrival, the girls coach, Robin Nance, discovered several cheerleaders were “no shows”, leaving open positions to fill. After a brief conversation, Hannah was asked by NCA coaches if she would like to perform in the halftime show and Hannah graciously accepted the offer. “It was simply being in the right place at the right time for Hannah,” Coach Robin Nance said, “it also made it more enjoyable for Payton to have a teammate and friend on the field with her. It was a wonderful opportunity for both girls.”