Osbourn Park Cheerleading Team to Perform at Gator Bowl

“When our coach first told the team we were going to the Gator Bowl, we were naturally excited, but also confused," said Osbourn Park High School (OPHS) cheerleader Kelly Martin. "We thought we were going down to watch the game and possibly meet the cheerleaders."

Then, head coach Jessica Turch revealed the twist: The girls were selected to perform during the halftime show.

“When Turch revealed we were one of the seven teams slated to perform, I was speechless,” Martin said.

On average, six high schools and an all-star squad are selected for the halftime performance.

The honor—a first for the OPHS team—came as a surprise.

“Bowl Games of America contacted the team after a successful 2010 season," Coach Turch said. "They were impressed with varsity, but more so impressed with the program as a whole."

In 2010, the team came first in the Prince William All-County Competition, Cardinal District and Northwest Region Tournament.

To cap off a trophy-filled season, the team placed a record third place at States.

“It is a special feeling to know someone appreciates your work and feels the need to recognize it,” Martin said.

For Turch, this was the “icing on the cake” after a successful season. “This is one of those moments in your high school and coaching career that you will never forget," she said. "This cheerleading program is my second family and I am honored to share this experience with them."

For the team, it will be their first time performing before a sold-out crowd on national television. The team has spent weeks in preparation for their upcoming performance after receiving a tape of the required choreography.

The team most prepared will line up in front and lead the other six teams in performance. The honor also opens new doors for recruiting.

“Being broadcast nationally encourages talented cheerleaders in Virginia to try out for our team,” Martin said.

With the upcoming performance, Turch has begun looking forward to next year and the opportunities that lay ahead.

“This season we had repeat seasons for both Varsity and JV. We expect to continue performing at a competitive level and surpass our previous achievements,” she said.

The future looks bright for the girls.

“We are only losing two of our 36 cheerleaders, with a host of freshmen talent on the rise,” Turch added.

The Gator Bowl game is scheduled for January 2, 2012. The game will be played in Jacksonville, Florida between Ohio State and Florida.

Tune in at 1 p.m on ESPN2 to catch the the girls' performance.