By REED DESALVO
The Natchez Democrat
NATCHEZ — Trinity Episcopal Day School’s Christi Ballard was named All-American as a dancer for three-consecutive years — from her eighth-grade to her sophomore campaigns.
In June, however, Ballard notched another notable accolade to her already impressive record, earning All-American honors in cheerleading as a senior, which culminated in a trip to London two weeks ago.
Ballard joined other All-American cheerleaders, taking part in London’s 30th annual New Year’s Day Parade.
“It was amazing,” Ballard recalled. “The

re were about a half million people present at the parade, and maybe two more million or more watching at home.”
In the parade, Ballard and the rest of the cheerleaders performed a number of fresh cheers they had just been introduced to days prior to the event.
“I did well,” Ballard said. “It was a little, ‘oh my gosh’ at first, but they were easy to catch on, and they were fun. We had to learn the dance on our own, then (perform) together, but we were able to do it flawlessly, just like a team. It was amazing.”
Ballard received her lofty status after the senior and the rest of the Trinity cheer squad traveled to Panama City, Fla., to compete in the small varsity division of the UCA Summer Camp.
“We did really well,” Ballard said. “We got first place in a lot of things — first place in extreme routine, we got a traditional award, and we did great in a lot of things.”
Ballard wasn’t the only Lady Saints’ member to earn All-American honors as Tali Beard, Lucy Pyron and Kailey Hutchins each took home the prestigious award.
Ballard noted competing on such a grand stage provided butterflies, but still managed to demonstrate the necessary composure to perform at her best.
“I’m used to going to smaller camps at (Louisiana-Monroe and Mississippi College),” Ballard said. “Then we went to Panama (City), and there were 20 teams. And in large varsity, that was the first time I had ever seen co-ed cheerleading in person, so that was really cool.”
Additionally, Ballard and the rest of her teammates were challenged with blocking out the lavish surroundings while remaining focused on the task at hand.
“It was a fun, competitive atmosphere,” she said. “It wasn’t just individual work; it was team work. It was fun because you were right on the beach, but that was almost like a tease, because by the time you got finished cheering, you’re so tired and you don’t want to go to the beach.”
Ballard intends on pursuing a profession in the medical field.
She is considering attending Baylor, Southern Methodist, the University of Dallas or Ole Miss, where she plans to continue her cheer and dance aspirations.