“The place (Qualcomm Stadium) went crazy,” said Wilkson, captain of the Chargers Cheerleaders. “And our cheerleaders leaped higher than ever.”
Wilkson, 27, who spent the holidays at home with her family, later learned she was selected by her cheering mates to represent them in the Jan. 31 Pro Bowl classic at Dolphin Stadium in Miami.
“It’s truly a big honor. The (selection) format is for one cheerleader from every NFL team to represent their team in the Pro Bowl.”
Her recent six-day visit to Huber Heights was the longest the busy Wilkson has spent with family, including parents, Gwen and Phil Wilkson, and friends since departing for San Diego.
Wilkson, who also works for a San Diego law firm, also is a University of Cincinnati alumnus where she was a member of the Bearcat Dance troupe that won three straight national collegiate dance championships.
“She has choreographed for several dance groups the last three years and really loves doing it,” said her mother, who also was a Warriorette, along with another daughter, Halley. Both served as Warriorette captains, as did Ashlie. Phil Wilkson was a three-sport athlete at Wayne (football, basketball and baseball.)
Making the Charger Cheerleader team was tough. More than 400 tried out in 2007. Wilkson was among the 28 chosen.
“Ashlie just gets better with her spirit and dedication,” said Lisa Simmons, director of the Charger Cheerleaders. “We feel fortunate to have her.”
Contact this writer at (937) 236-6032; mickeyz@zoomtown.com
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