Nutley High Won 15th Championship Title in 16 Years With Spectacular Cheer Squad

The 16th annual ‘Cheer For The Cure’ event at Foley Field in Bloomfield on October 5 marked a special year, as it was renamed to a new title. The recently declared name was ‘Karen Centinaro Memorial Cheer For The Cure’, which represented a heartfelt tribute to Mrs. Centinaro. Continuing to raise funds for cancer awareness and other vital charities, the organization ventured into the act after she passed away in March 2023. 

The dazzling event witnessed 16 schools participating, with some of the teams holding onto their consistency. While students from across Essex County delivered stellar performances, Nutley, a perennial powerhouse in the world of cheerleading, stood out once again. Clinching the American title, their victory marked an incredible milestone as Nutley secured its 15th division championship in the 16 years of the event. 

Cheerleading team holds on to their championship

Nutley High’s remarkable achievement showcased their unwavering dedication and skill set for cheerleading. Bloomfield’s cheerleaders shone also brightly, taking home the ‘Best Dance’ award, while Verona’s squad dazzled with their ‘Best Stunts’. Subsequently, the Newark Collegiate High’s cheerleading team did not remain unnoticed, earning the ‘Most Spirited’ award. Bloomfield High’s athletic director, Steven Jenkins, expressed his words of glee, stating, “The level of performance has never been better.”

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Jenkins further extended his gratitude, mentioning the athletic directors, coaches, and the Super Essex Conference for their support in the event. After the resounding success, he also acknowledged Project Cheer Up, a dedicated supporter of cheer and community service. Notably, Nutley High’s cheerleading team also portrayed excellence in a previous feat, with their younger group achieving another epic win recently. Reportedly, they dominated the 2022-23 season with five first-place wins and the title of Grand Champions.

Cheerleading event marks a noble cause

The Nutley Junior Raiders Competition Cheerleading squad, comprising fifth- to eighth-graders, was led by head coach and program director Jaime Ardizzone. Ardizzone later expressed her pride after the grand win, stating, “The teamwork, perseverance, drive, and determination that these ladies have shown is incredibly admirable.” While the school exhibited its persistence at the cheer event, the venue depicted another heartwarming picture. 

The Karen Centinaro Memorial Cheer For The Cure lately displayed a respectful message for Karen, a beloved member of the Bloomfield, NJ community. She was a dedicated admin at Bloomfield High for nearly two decades and was known for her wit, efficient work, and warm smile. Centinaro’s blissful life was evidently filled with love for her husband and two daughters. Her partner, John, later expressed his gratitude for the support of friends, Bloomfield’s police, fire, and ambulance services, and the dedicated volunteers. 

He also revealed the establishment of the Karen Centinaro Memorial Scholarship Fund, ensuring Karen’s legacy endures. With the cheer event’s renaming and the scholarship fund, Karen’s impact continued to reflect, reminding future generations of her lovable approach. Remarkably, Nutley’s spirit of cheerleading matched the momentum at the venue, touching hearts and spreading joy to all corners of Essex County.

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