Rugby player leaves scrum for new life as a cheerleader

Toby Brewer, 19, from Bristol competes with the Predators cheerleading squad Credit: Predators / SWNS.com

A former rugby player from Bristol has gone from running for the touch line to dancing on it as a member of Britain's national cheerleader squad.

Toby Brewer, 19, played rugby for his local team up to the age of 14, but switched to cheerleading after discovering his love of performing at a school show.

Toby's passion took off when he joined his local cheerleading club in Bristol - the Predators.

He has now gained a place in the UK's national cheerleading squad and is to take part in the Cheerleading World Championships in Florida

Shop assistant Toby says that many people don't realise the strength and dedication required to compete as a cheerleader:

Toby Young switched from rugby to cheerleading five years ago Credit: Predators / SWNS.com

Toby says that although the UK is still lagging far behind the US, many more boys and men are taking up the hobby.

"Once they come and watch it, boys realise that it’s a great team sport," he added.

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