Local cheerleaders inspire hope

AKRON, Ohio - This weekend many of us will cheer on our favorite teams in the NCAA tournament.
But a local cheerleading squad is reminding a lot of people what real spirit is about.
At Springfield High in Akron, the cheerleaders are sharing more than school spirit.
They're creating a sparkle effect, a national community service run by the Universal Cheerleading Association.
"What they're trying to do is spread spirit across America, and they're challenging all teams across America to start their own programs and to give children with special needs in their school district opportunities to participate in a school related activity," said coach Terry Kyser.
Five girls with special needs practice and perform with the team.
"Cheerleading is something that we all love to do and it's just nice that we're able to take the sport that we love and kind of pass it on to them and they love it just as much as we do," said cheerleader Bridgett Castle.