The Sparklers will head to Los Angeles on Friday morning to cheer at the Special Olympics World Games. Members of the community are invited to show their support at the sendoff at 6 am at the fishbowl.

“I am so excited for all of the Sparklers as they participate in this amazing experience,” Sparklers coach Elizabeth Thompson said.

The group has practiced three times a week, for two hours each. They have learned four new dances and 10 new cheers that they will showcase at events such as the opening ceremony and festivals during the Games. They have also received attention from the press, with appearances on the WFAA morning show, in the World Games Torch Run, and in the Dallas Morning News.

“The students are excited by all of it,” Thompson said. “Lauryn Duncan can be seen jumping up and down waving a poster that says ‘Cheer on the World’ during crowd shots from the morning show. They were also excited about the Dallas Morning News coverage as well as the coverage that they received at the Torch Run which will be played at the opening ceremony, I believe.”

To look their best as they represent their school, the students have received new uniforms and are set to receive new shirts, poms, shoes, and bows donated by various companies.

“The uniforms look amazing!” Thompson said. “The Sparklers knew it was more than a dream when they received the uniforms.”

For Thompson, the experience is surreal as well because of her own history with the games.

“I volunteered at the 1995 World Games in New Haven, Connecticut with my youth group, and it was a wonderful, rewarding experience,” Thompson said. “I am honored to be a part of this event.”

The Sparklers will be performing at the Opening Ceremonies, as well as for volleyball, aquatics, basketball, and rollerskating. Visit the official website for locations and dates, and watch ESPN for daily highlights. They will also tour the Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood, and sightsee celebrities’ homes.

“The whole thing is going to be incredible,” Thompson said. “I just know it.”