The Xtreme Cheer Blaze team poses with the championship trophy after winning a competition Sunday in Rhode Island.

Photo Credit: Contributed by Xtreme Cheer

Xtreme Cheer members stand with a banner after the victory.

Photo Credit: Contributed by Xtreme Cheer

Alexis Scorp is supported by teammates during the Blaze's routine.

Photo Credit: Contributed by Xtreme Cheer

NORWALK, Conn. – The Norwalk-based Xtreme Cheer Blaze rallied from behind over the weekend to win the national title in the Platinum Athletic Championships in Providence, R.I.

The  Blaze, which has Fairfield County athletes up to age 18, were in third place after the first day of the two-day event. The Blaze won the competition with a big performance on Sunday.

The Blaze had to adjust its lineup when a cheerleaderler left the team late last week. Norwalk’s Sophia Buitrago, a late addition to the team, filled in admirably, coach Dana Talbot said.

“We only had one day to practice to make changes,’’ Talbot said. “Sophia filled in most of the spots and did a phenomenal job. We switched it around to make it work, but we were all nervous, especially after the first day and we were in third place.”

Xtreme Cheer is expanding to a facility in Hopewell Junction, N.Y. It plans a grand opening at Angie’s Gymnastics on Feb. 18 from 1-5 p.m.