Lindenhurst, Crystal Lake cheerleading companies merge

Ultimate Athletics, a competitive cheerleading business in Lindenhurst, announced it is merging with Cheer Fusion Allstars in Crystal Lake.

The company, which will be called Ultimate Athletics, will close its Lindenhurst location and open a new expanded gym at 1210 Karl Ave. in Wauconda. The Crystal Lake location will continue to operate as well, said Melissa Rapp marketing director at Ultimate Athletics.

The new 34,000-square-foot Wauconda gym, set to open Sunday, May 2, will expand its class offering. All-Star competitive dance, dance classes, power tumbling, martial arts, CrossFit training and preschool dance lessons will be offered. A grand opening will take place on May 2.

Craig El, owner of Ultimate and Michelle Reisdorf, owner of Cheer Fusion, will serve as co-owners of the expanded business. "Craig and Michelle were ready to go to the next level and expand the programs," Rapp said. She added that El has more experience in coaching while Reisdorf will handle more of the business aspect of the company.