PCA’s Peyton Cobb and Anna Connell Earn Athletic Scholarships and Spot on Collegiate Cheer Squads

Two of PCA’s varsity cheerleaders will pursue their passion for cheer at the collegiate level after signing letters of intent in front of their family, friends, and cheer squad. Anna Connell signed a letter of intent with Huntingdon College after the Hawks selected her to join their team last month. Peyton Cobb also signed a letter of intent with Troy University after the Trojans selected her out of 71 tryout participants this past weekend. Both student-athletes will receive athletic scholarships. 

Peyton Cobb has cheered most of her life! Before attending PCA, she cheered competitively with Titan Gymnastics and Cheer in Wetumpka. She began as a junior varsity cheerleader in the 7th grade and continued to perfect her passion as she grew, becoming the squad’s Co-Captain for her junior and senior year. Peyton was named a UCA All-American in 2019, 2020, and 2021. She was invited and performed in Orlando, Florida as a select group of All-American cheerleaders in 2019. 

“Peyton is a joy to know,” said Lisa Hardman, PCA’s assistant varsity cheer coach. “she shines in all she does! It has been so wonderful getting to watch her grow as a leader, and without a doubt, she is going to make an incredible Trojan cheerleader.”

Anna Connell began her cheerleading career as a pints cheerleader in the second grade under the direction of Kimberly Simpson, PCA’s former varsity cheer coach and now cheer director. Anna has developed her skills and leadership abilities under Coach Simpson for the past 10 years. Her Huntingdon coach will only be her second coach in her cheer career. She was named the squad’s Captain this year and also received UCA’s All-American honor in 2021. 

“Anna has a heart of gold,” said Jennifer Goff, PCA’s varsity cheer coach. “Her desire to be the best team member and cheerleader is evident in all she does! It has been a joy to watch her grow this year, and there is no doubt she is going to make a positive impact on her Hawk squad this fall.”