Kelly Zapien, a junior at Orestimba High School, represented Varsity Spirit (the global leader in cheerleading, dance team and band apparel, camps and competitions, and a division of Varsity Brands) in the Rome New Year’s Day Parade in Rome, Italy from December 26, 2025 to January 2, 2026.
Zapien was among the cheerleaders, dancers, and drum majors who were invited to perform in the Rome New Year’s Day Parade as part of a select group of All-Americans identified at Varsity Spirit summer camps across the country. All-Americans are based on superior cheerleading, dance, or drum major skills as well as leadership skills at camps operated by Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA), Universal Dance Association (UDA), National Cheerleaders Association (NCA), National Dance Alliance (NDA), United Spirit Association (USA) or Urban Cheerleading Experience (UCE). Only the top 12% of the cheerleaders and dancers from Varsity Spirit camps earn the chance to participate in a performance of this caliber.
“We’re thrilled to return to the Rome New Year’s Day Parade and to offer these exceptional athletes the chance to perform as part of one of our Special Events abroad,” said Bill Seely, President of Varsity Spirit. “It’s an honor to provide athletes with an unforgettable opportunity where they can connect with cheerleaders, dancers, and drum majors from across the United States and take part in a historic international celebration.”
Zapien performed with Varsity Spirit All-Americans in an exclusive performance with more than 2,000 performers, including some of America's best-known high school marching bands, for a parade in central Rome. Besides being able to perform in a world-renowned parade, athletes had the opportunity to meet cheerleaders and dancers from across the US and enjoy a memorable trip to one of the world’s most popular cities.
Zapien shared her excitement with Westside Connect stating:
“Being part of the Rome New Year’s Parade was undoubtedly one of the most incredible moments of my life. The staff was incredibly warm and welcoming, and witnessing both Rome and Florence was a beautiful and blessed experience for my family and me. We created memories that will forever be cherished.
I also made lifelong friends with girls from various places, including Kansas, Georgia, San Diego, and Sacramento.
On parade day, my emotions were overwhelming. It was astonishing to see the immense love we received from the crowd. The sheer number of smiles and waves we received was truly amazing. My favorite part was waving back and witnessing how enlightened people became when they realized we had noticed them. Sharing that universal joy, even without a shared language, created an incredible connection.
At one point, a little girl ran up, hugged me, and expressed her desire to be like me when she grew up. It was a perfect reminder of how I embarked on my own journey. I grew up watching the Orestimba Cheer team, filming their performances, and telling myself that I would one day wear their OHS uniform. Now, I am living that dream and have even become an All-American. Dreams truly do come true, and I am incredibly grateful for everything, especially having my family by my side. I eagerly anticipate the wonders that the new year will bring!”
For more information about the Varsity Spirit All-American Program, visit www.varsity.com.
