Schuylkill Haven Cheerleader Dazzles at Pearl Harbor Parade

A cheerleader from Schuylkill Haven High School recently took her talents to an international stage, performing at the renowned Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Honolulu, Hawaii. Mina Barket, a 16-year-old sophomore, showcased her skills on December 7, 2023, as part of an elite group recognized as All-American Cheerleaders by the Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA).

Barket was among nine students from her school to earn this prestigious title, but she was the only one selected to participate in the parade. The All-American designation acknowledges athletes with superior technical skills and exceptional leadership qualities. According to Brian Bianco, spokesman for Varsity Spirit, which has organized these competitions since 1980, “Mina and the others selected for these events should be very proud of the hard work and influence they have on making themselves and those around them successful.”

A proud member of the Schuylkill Haven cheerleading squad, Barket’s journey to Hawaii began at a UCA Cheer Camp in July, where she was nominated by her peers and camp staff. The camp serves as a platform for cheerleaders to demonstrate their abilities, with selections based on merit and performance.

Barket’s participation in the Pearl Harbor parade involved hundreds of cheerleaders from across the United States. They performed not only for the live audience but also for viewers around the world through a broadcast. This experience followed her previous participation in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade, both of which she considers significant milestones in her cheerleading career. “The memories from these parades will last a lifetime,” Barket noted, expressing her excitement about meeting other talented cheerleaders and learning from them.

Support from Family and Team

Accompanying Barket on this remarkable journey was her mother, Amy Keller, who shared in the experience of exploring Hawaii’s beautiful beaches and cultural sites, including the Polynesian Cultural Center and the USS Arizona Memorial. The trip not only provided a chance to perform but also allowed them to honor World War II veterans during the memorial ceremony.

While her father, Chris Barket, could not attend due to work commitments, he watched the parade live online. He expressed immense pride in his daughter’s achievements, stating, “Seeing her march in the Pearl Harbor parade showed how far she has come. I’m absolutely proud of her.”

Her coach, Caitlin Brossman, echoed this sentiment, praising Barket’s contributions to the team. “We love having her on the team. She’s a great student and a great athlete, and all of the younger cheerleaders look up to her. She’s just a ray of light,” Brossman said.

As Barket continues her cheerleading journey, she remains committed to her squad, which has demonstrated remarkable talent with many members achieving All-American status. “Our team is really great,” she remarked, highlighting the collective effort and dedication of her fellow cheerleaders.

Barket’s experience in Hawaii serves as an inspiring reminder of the dedication and spirit within the world of cheerleading, marking a significant chapter in her young athletic career.