Over the last couple of years we have covered the Douglas High School cheerleaders in Douglas, WY. We thought it would be fun to ask their Head Cheer Coach Margo Shatto about how this season went and the outlook for this upcoming year. Below are the questions and answers from Margo.
1. How long have you been the cheer coach at Douglas High?
I have been the Douglas High School Cheer Coach for 14 years.
2. This year you went to a national cheer competition, is this something you will want to do every year?
This last year we did go to the National Cheer Competition is Dallas Texas and represented Wyoming very well. I don't fore-see us attending Nationals this year. But, in the future I do see myself preparing another squad to compete in a National competition.
3. What are other goals you set for your team every year?
The goals I set for my team every year is to place at our state competition. If you look on the Wyoming Athletic web site you will see that the Douglas Cheer squad places in the top 3 every year. I also take 3 squads to our state competition and we usually place in the top three in all routines and we are usually the only 3A school that participates in all three routines. That means a lot of practices and dedication from the coaches and athletes.
4. What is a tradition that your team has every year that they do?
Our main tradition happen before we compete. We get together the night before and have a team dinner and get our hair ready for competition. We wear hair pieces that have to be sewn into their hair. On the morning of competition we meet at our practice faculty "The Bearcat Den" and go over our 3 routines then our senior cheerleaders give an inspirational speech to the squad and we load our bus that has been graciously decorated by our booster club. It is also a tradition that our seniors put together our non-stunt routine for state. Its also a tradition that anytime we travel out of town and come upon a Starbucks...we stop.
5. What are tryouts like for the cheer team?
We do not have tryouts for cheer in Douglas. Our philosophy is that anyone can join cheer and we welcome anyone. I like having students involved in extra curricular activities and helping them feel part of a team.
6. What would you tell someone who is on the fence about trying out for cheerleading at the high school level?
If someone is thinking about trying our for cheerleading I we advise them to try it. Talk to the coach, some present and past cheerleaders. Attending practices would be a great idea. Cheerleaders get a not so good reputation sometimes and a lot what is said about cheerleaders is not true. Find it our for yourself.
7. What is a favorite memory you have from being the cheer coach at Douglas High?
I have a lot of memories being the cheer coach for Douglas High School but one of my best is being able to coach my daughter, Kelsey. She then went on to cheer at UW and comes back to Douglas and helps me with my squad. She puts together our music and does the choreograph for our stunt routine. She is now coaching at Torrington and I enjoy sharing experiences with her as a coach.
8. Tell us a little bit about the town of Douglas, WY.
Douglas Wyoming is a small town that loves sports. We don't have a Walmart or a Starbucks. We have 1 High School and our town population is around 6,000. We are going through an oil boom at this time and our small town atmosphere is growing.
9. We actually got to photograph your daughter, Kelsey, when she was a cheerleader at the University of Wyoming. What is one of your favorite memories of Kelsey when she was cheering at Wyoming?
My favorite memory of Kelsey when she was cheering at UW watching her cheer at the football games. She would start cheering on the west side of the football field and would move around the field every quarter and I would move with her. I absolutely loved watching her cheer and being a part of that experience. I also traveled to New Mexico and Las Vegas when the team was in tournaments just to watch her cheer.
Thank you to Margo for your time in answering our questions. We have had a lot of fun covering Douglas High Cheer the last couple of years. We hope to make it out that way this year to take some more photos and cover their team even more!
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Friday, July 25, 2014
Meet Andrea a 15 Year Old Cheerleader and Entrepreneur
We recently met an amazing cheerleader named Andrea. She is 15 years old and does competitive cheer in Las Vegas. But what stands out to us, is the fact that not only is she in school and doing competitive cheerleading, but she runs a business as well. Her business name is Andrea's Cheer Bowtique. She has not only been a pleasure to get to know, but her cheer bows are very high quality and you won't find a better person making them. Below is an interview we recently had with Andrea. You can find her bows online at http://www.andreascheerbowtique.com/. Make sure to visit our Local Deals page for a coupon as well!
1. How did you come up with the idea to start making bows?
About a year and a half ago, when I was 14, I started making ribbon bows for myself. After buying a few fancy ones and paying a lot for them my mom said I needed to figure out how to make my own so we started experimenting and eventually figured it out. My friends started buying them and asking for custom bows in different colors with their names and logos, so I did more research and figured out what I needed to make the bows better. It was nice having my own money, a little extra cash spend on what I wanted. Since my friends were constantly placing orders, my mom told me I needed to start marketing my bows since there seemed to be a demand for them. It was never my intent to have a full blown cheer bow business when I started out, but with my mom’s constant encouragement and support, I eventually made a FaceBook page, then an Instagram account and finally a website that is personalized to me and my bows and now I sell to people all over the world.
2. What all items/products do you offer on your website?
Every kind of cheer bow you can think of. I have cheer sayings, names, team logos and names, holiday bows, awareness bows, competition bows, national bows, autograph bows that you can write on, just about anything my customers dream up. I also sell bow key chains to hook on your back pack. The key chain bows are on 1 1/2" ribbon or 2 1/4" ribbon. All the cheer bows are on 3" ribbon, although I had a gym in Canada that placed a large order and some of the bows were on 4" ribbon.
3. What is the most rewarding aspect to running your own business?
There's a few things that give me a great deal of gratification, but first I have to say that I would never have been able to do any of this without my mom’s love, support and encouragement. She’s not only taught me a lot about running a business, she’s also sacrificed a lot of her time and made this all possible for me to benefit from doing something I love – being creative and making works of art. I love the independence of having my own money and bank account and being able to afford all of my cheer and travel for me and my mom. I'm also starting to save for a car and college. Also, the satisfaction of knowing that I've created something unique that people like and want is a great feeling, but most of all I'm amazed at the fact that so many girls, young and even older than me and even parents, look up to me and write me to tell me how much I inspire them because of all I do and the fact that I'm living my dream.
4. I read on your website, you recently moved to Las Vegas for cheer. How has that transition been and tell us more about your team.
When your life as you know it changes dramatically and you have to start all over again, it’s pretty darn scary. I left the dream home my parents built and I grew up in, and all my friends so I could fulfill my dream of being on a well-known level 5 All Star cheer team. It was a lot of pressure having to start all over with my life but I kept telling myself, I could do it, and being on the California All Stars Aces team was what I wanted to do, so I knew it would all be worth it. My new high school is a lot of fun and I've made some good friends. The teachers I had were great, I managed to keep a 3.8 GPA and some of my teachers wanted to know all about my cheer comps when I was gone from school competing. The year has gone by so fast. I still keep in touch with all my friends from California and a few come to visit and are coming this summer, so I’m excited about seeing them. My cheer team was amazing. There were only a handful of returners on the team last year and the rest of us were all new so we quickly became good friends. We all love each other and care about each other and that really makes all the stress and pressure of feeling scared a lot easier to deal with. I couldn't ask for a better team and can’t wait for this year’s season to begin.
5. How did you get started in cheerleading?
I had been in gymnastics since I was 4. When I was 9, we were at a gym in Fresno, California, where I took gymnastics lessons. One day the coach for the All Star Cheer team told my mom they needed me on their team. We didn't know anything about All Star cheer, but I was on my 4th grade school cheer team and really liked it so my mom signed me up. I started on a level 2 team and had a lot of fun that year and liked going to competitions. I continued doing school cheer as well as All Star Cheer. Every year I acquired new skills and moved up a level and worked really hard and it all paid off since I'm living my dream of being on the California All Stars level 5 team.
6. What do you enjoy the most when competing at cheer competitions?
I can’t wait to get on the mat and shine. Seeing all the people and performing to my best ability is an amazing feeling I just can't describe. Also, I really enjoy getting to meet the people I talk to on-line who are now friends and meeting some of my customers. Of course exploring new places and shopping afterwards is always fun too.
7. What is your favorite memory from cheerleading?
Experiencing Worlds was unbelievable. Taking the floor knowing that the entire world was watching or would be watching was my dream come true. Also, walking the red carpet at the Champions League and going to the movie theater and seeing my team in a movie is something I’ll never forget.
8. Outside of cheer, what are your favorite things to do in your free-time?
Now that's a funny question considering 11 1/2 months out of the year my life revolves around cheer and any extra time I have I’m usually working on bow orders! But I would have to say I love hanging out with my friends and shopping and occasionally I even get to go hiking in the mountains at Red Rock.
9. Whats your favorite thing about Las Vegas?
Going to concerts. Everyone come here. Hanging out at the strip when my friends come to town, shopping at the Fashion Mall and all the great outlets.
10. That leads us to favorites:
Color? Pink
Movie? All my friends know this one. I love the Polar Express. I know it all by heart, I’ve seen it so many times!
TV Show? Pretty Little Liars, Gossip Girl and Teen Wolf
Music? Alternative - Austin Mahone and 1Direction are my idols
Food? I eat just about everything. My mom is pretty amazing cook - I love all her food, especially pasta.
Sports Teams? Giants and 49ers! I’m a Cali girl.
11. Going to school, having a business and doing competitive cheerleading, how do you find time for it all?
Being organized is the key, but I’m not very good at that so my mom really has to stay on top of me. I have a schedule that lays everything out so I know what needs to be done, where I need to be and when.
12. What are you plans/goals for the future?
This year, my goal is to win a Worlds ring, so time will tell if that becomes a reality. I’ll continue making bows and will probably cheer until I graduate from high school in two years, if my body isn’t broken by then. I would love to travel the world. College depends on who offers me a scholarship. I plan on getting an MBA and maybe work in hospitality or marketing and hope to spend a semester or two in Europe.
Thank you Andrea for taking time to interview with us. We really love working with you and have really enjoyed getting to know you!
1. How did you come up with the idea to start making bows?
About a year and a half ago, when I was 14, I started making ribbon bows for myself. After buying a few fancy ones and paying a lot for them my mom said I needed to figure out how to make my own so we started experimenting and eventually figured it out. My friends started buying them and asking for custom bows in different colors with their names and logos, so I did more research and figured out what I needed to make the bows better. It was nice having my own money, a little extra cash spend on what I wanted. Since my friends were constantly placing orders, my mom told me I needed to start marketing my bows since there seemed to be a demand for them. It was never my intent to have a full blown cheer bow business when I started out, but with my mom’s constant encouragement and support, I eventually made a FaceBook page, then an Instagram account and finally a website that is personalized to me and my bows and now I sell to people all over the world.
2. What all items/products do you offer on your website?
Every kind of cheer bow you can think of. I have cheer sayings, names, team logos and names, holiday bows, awareness bows, competition bows, national bows, autograph bows that you can write on, just about anything my customers dream up. I also sell bow key chains to hook on your back pack. The key chain bows are on 1 1/2" ribbon or 2 1/4" ribbon. All the cheer bows are on 3" ribbon, although I had a gym in Canada that placed a large order and some of the bows were on 4" ribbon.
3. What is the most rewarding aspect to running your own business?
There's a few things that give me a great deal of gratification, but first I have to say that I would never have been able to do any of this without my mom’s love, support and encouragement. She’s not only taught me a lot about running a business, she’s also sacrificed a lot of her time and made this all possible for me to benefit from doing something I love – being creative and making works of art. I love the independence of having my own money and bank account and being able to afford all of my cheer and travel for me and my mom. I'm also starting to save for a car and college. Also, the satisfaction of knowing that I've created something unique that people like and want is a great feeling, but most of all I'm amazed at the fact that so many girls, young and even older than me and even parents, look up to me and write me to tell me how much I inspire them because of all I do and the fact that I'm living my dream.
4. I read on your website, you recently moved to Las Vegas for cheer. How has that transition been and tell us more about your team.
When your life as you know it changes dramatically and you have to start all over again, it’s pretty darn scary. I left the dream home my parents built and I grew up in, and all my friends so I could fulfill my dream of being on a well-known level 5 All Star cheer team. It was a lot of pressure having to start all over with my life but I kept telling myself, I could do it, and being on the California All Stars Aces team was what I wanted to do, so I knew it would all be worth it. My new high school is a lot of fun and I've made some good friends. The teachers I had were great, I managed to keep a 3.8 GPA and some of my teachers wanted to know all about my cheer comps when I was gone from school competing. The year has gone by so fast. I still keep in touch with all my friends from California and a few come to visit and are coming this summer, so I’m excited about seeing them. My cheer team was amazing. There were only a handful of returners on the team last year and the rest of us were all new so we quickly became good friends. We all love each other and care about each other and that really makes all the stress and pressure of feeling scared a lot easier to deal with. I couldn't ask for a better team and can’t wait for this year’s season to begin.
5. How did you get started in cheerleading?
I had been in gymnastics since I was 4. When I was 9, we were at a gym in Fresno, California, where I took gymnastics lessons. One day the coach for the All Star Cheer team told my mom they needed me on their team. We didn't know anything about All Star cheer, but I was on my 4th grade school cheer team and really liked it so my mom signed me up. I started on a level 2 team and had a lot of fun that year and liked going to competitions. I continued doing school cheer as well as All Star Cheer. Every year I acquired new skills and moved up a level and worked really hard and it all paid off since I'm living my dream of being on the California All Stars level 5 team.
6. What do you enjoy the most when competing at cheer competitions?
I can’t wait to get on the mat and shine. Seeing all the people and performing to my best ability is an amazing feeling I just can't describe. Also, I really enjoy getting to meet the people I talk to on-line who are now friends and meeting some of my customers. Of course exploring new places and shopping afterwards is always fun too.
7. What is your favorite memory from cheerleading?
Experiencing Worlds was unbelievable. Taking the floor knowing that the entire world was watching or would be watching was my dream come true. Also, walking the red carpet at the Champions League and going to the movie theater and seeing my team in a movie is something I’ll never forget.
8. Outside of cheer, what are your favorite things to do in your free-time?
Now that's a funny question considering 11 1/2 months out of the year my life revolves around cheer and any extra time I have I’m usually working on bow orders! But I would have to say I love hanging out with my friends and shopping and occasionally I even get to go hiking in the mountains at Red Rock.
9. Whats your favorite thing about Las Vegas?
Going to concerts. Everyone come here. Hanging out at the strip when my friends come to town, shopping at the Fashion Mall and all the great outlets.
10. That leads us to favorites:
Color? Pink
Movie? All my friends know this one. I love the Polar Express. I know it all by heart, I’ve seen it so many times!
TV Show? Pretty Little Liars, Gossip Girl and Teen Wolf
Music? Alternative - Austin Mahone and 1Direction are my idols
Food? I eat just about everything. My mom is pretty amazing cook - I love all her food, especially pasta.
Sports Teams? Giants and 49ers! I’m a Cali girl.
11. Going to school, having a business and doing competitive cheerleading, how do you find time for it all?
Being organized is the key, but I’m not very good at that so my mom really has to stay on top of me. I have a schedule that lays everything out so I know what needs to be done, where I need to be and when.
12. What are you plans/goals for the future?
This year, my goal is to win a Worlds ring, so time will tell if that becomes a reality. I’ll continue making bows and will probably cheer until I graduate from high school in two years, if my body isn’t broken by then. I would love to travel the world. College depends on who offers me a scholarship. I plan on getting an MBA and maybe work in hospitality or marketing and hope to spend a semester or two in Europe.
Thank you Andrea for taking time to interview with us. We really love working with you and have really enjoyed getting to know you!
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Meet Eastern Michigan University's New Cheer Coach - Mary Spilski
Today we are interviewing Mary Spilski, the new Head Coach of Eastern Michigan Cheerleaders. We have had the pleasure of working with Mary the past few years when we have photographed the Wyoming Spirit Squad. She was the assistant coach and she was also the director of the Junior Cowgirls Cheerleaders at Wyoming. Below are the questions and answers from Mary.
1. Give us some of your cheer background and how you got started in cheer.
I cheered throughout high school and loved it! However, some knee injuries sidelined me and kept me from cheering on my Cowboys at UW. Because I love the sport so much and am so passionate about it I started coaching while in college and have worked at the high school, junior college, and Division 1 levels.
2. Tell us a little about how tryouts went this year and a little bit about your new team.
Tryouts were fabulous this year! I was a little rusty since we have been recruiting and have not had tryouts in a couple years. The team is great! I am super excited. Everyone has a tuck (at least) and we are really working towards a new EMU Spirit. I am so excited for the year to start. There are 17 returners and that is huge for rebuilding a program!
3. What are some goals you will set for your squad?
Some goals we have for the squad are basically to be the best in the MAC. So that comes down to a whole lot of hard work, pushing ourselves with stunting and tumbling, and on my end, working towards an organized, clean, professional program.
4. In your time so far, have you learned about any traditions for Eastern Michigan?
I have only spent a few days at EMU and have learned quite a bit! They hold huge pep rallys on the Lake on Campus. It is beautiful and draws huge crowds; this is something I am looking forward to!
5. What all events can fans of Eastern Michigan see your team cheering at?
At Eastern Michigan University the cheerleaders perform/cheer at every home football game as well as volleyball and men's and women' basketball. Because the schools in the conference are all pretty close we will be doing a lot of traveling to football games this season!
6. Does Eastern Michigan currently have a Junior Cheerleaders program? If not, do you plan on maybe looking into having one in the future?
Junior Cowgirls Cheerleading was my baby at UW. That program was started from scratch and was hugely successful (thanks to the wonderful community). It is something I am sad to leave behind. EMU does not currently have a program similar to this, however, I will definitely look to start one in the coming years! I might have more competition because the area is saturated with all start gyms. But it will be worth the time and effort!
7. In your time of visiting Ypsilanti, MI so far, how does it compare to Laramie, WY?
Ypsilanti is soooo different than Laramie, WY, yet there are some similarities. They are both smaller towns with an absolute college feel! However, Ypsilanti is about 3 miles from Ann Arbor which is a much bigger city. Also there are trees and water everywhere! We are about 45 minutes from Lake Erie and about 45 miles from Detroit. There is a dense population which is very different from Wyoming, where I have lived my entire life so far. No wide open spaces out there! But we plan to buy a boat and put it to good use.
8. How you found a favorite restaurant in Ypsilanti?
Not yet! But they have a ton to choose from. A lot of little places downtown and in Depot town which we will try once we get there! There is Red Rock which is a BBQ place we ate at that was super yummy!
9. What is one of your favorite memories about your time at the University of Wyoming?
My favorite memories are the girls and guys I worked with. My heart hurts when I think about leaving them. They gave me so many valuable lessons and wonderful memories and I hope they got something out of me. I am going to miss those crazy kids so very much! Too many memories and funny stories to write down.
10. While at Wyoming, you worked with a lot of youth cheerleaders, what do you say to parents who are thinking about possibly having their son or daughter do cheerleading as a sport?
The thing I would say to those parents is that cheerleading is a commitment. It gets inside you and once you start it is hard to let go of. It is a lot of hard work and maybe some blood, sweat, and tears, but it is nothing short of character building! Small children learn confidence, team work, and motor skills that will help them throughout their lives. I would encourage everyone to give it a shot!
Congratulations to Mary and we look forward to catching up with her this fall to see how her and her team is doing!
1. Give us some of your cheer background and how you got started in cheer.
I cheered throughout high school and loved it! However, some knee injuries sidelined me and kept me from cheering on my Cowboys at UW. Because I love the sport so much and am so passionate about it I started coaching while in college and have worked at the high school, junior college, and Division 1 levels.
2. Tell us a little about how tryouts went this year and a little bit about your new team.
Tryouts were fabulous this year! I was a little rusty since we have been recruiting and have not had tryouts in a couple years. The team is great! I am super excited. Everyone has a tuck (at least) and we are really working towards a new EMU Spirit. I am so excited for the year to start. There are 17 returners and that is huge for rebuilding a program!
3. What are some goals you will set for your squad?
Some goals we have for the squad are basically to be the best in the MAC. So that comes down to a whole lot of hard work, pushing ourselves with stunting and tumbling, and on my end, working towards an organized, clean, professional program.
4. In your time so far, have you learned about any traditions for Eastern Michigan?
I have only spent a few days at EMU and have learned quite a bit! They hold huge pep rallys on the Lake on Campus. It is beautiful and draws huge crowds; this is something I am looking forward to!
5. What all events can fans of Eastern Michigan see your team cheering at?
At Eastern Michigan University the cheerleaders perform/cheer at every home football game as well as volleyball and men's and women' basketball. Because the schools in the conference are all pretty close we will be doing a lot of traveling to football games this season!
6. Does Eastern Michigan currently have a Junior Cheerleaders program? If not, do you plan on maybe looking into having one in the future?
Junior Cowgirls Cheerleading was my baby at UW. That program was started from scratch and was hugely successful (thanks to the wonderful community). It is something I am sad to leave behind. EMU does not currently have a program similar to this, however, I will definitely look to start one in the coming years! I might have more competition because the area is saturated with all start gyms. But it will be worth the time and effort!
7. In your time of visiting Ypsilanti, MI so far, how does it compare to Laramie, WY?
Ypsilanti is soooo different than Laramie, WY, yet there are some similarities. They are both smaller towns with an absolute college feel! However, Ypsilanti is about 3 miles from Ann Arbor which is a much bigger city. Also there are trees and water everywhere! We are about 45 minutes from Lake Erie and about 45 miles from Detroit. There is a dense population which is very different from Wyoming, where I have lived my entire life so far. No wide open spaces out there! But we plan to buy a boat and put it to good use.
8. How you found a favorite restaurant in Ypsilanti?
Not yet! But they have a ton to choose from. A lot of little places downtown and in Depot town which we will try once we get there! There is Red Rock which is a BBQ place we ate at that was super yummy!
9. What is one of your favorite memories about your time at the University of Wyoming?
My favorite memories are the girls and guys I worked with. My heart hurts when I think about leaving them. They gave me so many valuable lessons and wonderful memories and I hope they got something out of me. I am going to miss those crazy kids so very much! Too many memories and funny stories to write down.
10. While at Wyoming, you worked with a lot of youth cheerleaders, what do you say to parents who are thinking about possibly having their son or daughter do cheerleading as a sport?
The thing I would say to those parents is that cheerleading is a commitment. It gets inside you and once you start it is hard to let go of. It is a lot of hard work and maybe some blood, sweat, and tears, but it is nothing short of character building! Small children learn confidence, team work, and motor skills that will help them throughout their lives. I would encourage everyone to give it a shot!
Congratulations to Mary and we look forward to catching up with her this fall to see how her and her team is doing!
Friday, May 30, 2014
Meet Kirstie Bosworth - May 2014 Dancer of the Month - University of Central Missouri
May 2014
Being a twin sister to Kirstie, give us a couple of examples of what she is like as a twin sister.
I would not have it any other way! As most people probably know, Kirstie and I are completely different! As a twin sister, Kirstie is always the loud/ tell it how it is type of person. I could always count on her to have my back; everyone knew not to mess with me, because then they would have to deal with her! Going to different colleges, sometimes our breaks aren’t quite the same, which is always so hard! When my sister leaves, the house gets so quiet. You can always count on my sister for a good time, she’s so much fun to be around. With our personalities being so different, I think we complimented each other well, which is why we get along!
What is it like dancing with Kirstie?
Kirstie and I had been dancing together since we were three. Growing up in the dance world, we did duos, trios and small groups together. I loved dancing with my sister; it’s always easier dancing next to someone you like to be around. In high school, we got to share the role of captain together, and our different personalities made a great team. When we decided to split up for college, it was always weird going to each other’s games and not being on the floor at the same time, but it was fun seeing all our hard work that we did together pay off in the collegiate level!
What is one word you would use when describing your sister?
Outrageous
Tell us something that Kirstie's coaches and teammates may not know about her.
Kirstie literally sleeps with her eyes WIDE OPEN at times. I can remember several times I would go into her room, or walk in the living room and try having a conversation with her, and she was asleep the entire time! It’s the craziest thing ever!
If Kirstie was driving down the highway today, what song would she be playing?
Gosh… what song would she not be belching? As of today, she’s on this “Let It go” trip… off of frozen. She has to look up the lyrics, because she actually only knows like one verse. But on a good day, Kirstie would be singing, “She got a donk!” The words are pretty repetitive… so it’s a little easier for her to sing!
Amanda C. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Kirstie?
Perfect!
How does Kirstie lead by example during practices and game days?
Stays positive and focused, is honest when we need to step up our game, she is a wonderful role model!
What is your favorite memory of Kirstie?
When I was having a rough time earlier this year she was there for me every step of the way. She supported me
through all of it and gave me great advice.
Can you tell us a time when Kirstie made you laugh?
She always makes me laugh! Especially when she sang to our waiter at el mont!
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Probably a chick flick.
Anything else you want to tell us about Kirstie?
I could not have asked for a better captain than she was. She really cared about the welfare of the team and supported every single girl.
Kari K. (Coach)
What is one word that describes Kirstie?
Charismatic
How does Kirstie lead by example during practices and game days?
Kirstie is the motivating force at practice and is a role model to her teammates. She is one of the hardest working members of the team and encourages others to do so too. She is dependable; always on time, always at all practices and games and most importantly helps with things outside of practice.
What is your favorite memory of Kirstie?
Although several of my top memories involve humor because Kirstie says and does the funniest things, I think my favorite memory is when Kirstie was holding my three-week son during tryouts this year for the first time. She loves babies and will make a great mom in the future!
What is one of Kirstie's biggest dance strength?
Her ability to lead a team and bring out the best in everyone.
Katelyn P. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Kirstie?
Outgoing
How does Kirstie lead by example during practices and game days?
She follows all the rules, she comes prepared, she knows all the dances and helps girls who are struggling.
What is your favorite memory of Kirstie?
Being able to complete the past three years on dance team with her, I made a best friend and found my sister! We were able to end our seasons with a National Championship.
Can you tell us a time when Kirstie made you laugh?
Everyday! Not a day goes by that I don't laugh at something she has to say.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
I think her favorite movie is Parent trap or Mulan.
Anything else you want to tell us about Kirstie?
Very happy I met Kirstie and I couldn't imagine my life without her.
Carol D. (Mom)
How did Kirstie get started in dance?
Kirstie got started dancing at age 4. Me being a dancer, that is all she knew.
When you see Kirstie dancing, can you tell us how it makes you feel?
I love to watch her dance. It brings we such joy and I always feel proud every time she dances.
Tell us something that Kirstie's coaches and teammates may not know about her.
Couple things they may not know about her ... She watches hours and hours of Law and Order. She sleeps with her eyes open. She peed her pants in Kindergarten.
What is one word that comes to mind about your daughter Kirstie?
Passionate
If Kirstie was to pick up a half gallon of ice cream today from the store, what kind would she get do you think?
If she went to by Ice Cream, it would be a 1/2 Gallon of Ben and Jerry's Chocolate Chunk. However Red, White and Blue Bomb Pops are her go to!!!!
Michaela W. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Kirstie?
Ambitious
How does Kirstie lead by example during practices and game days?
She leads by example during practices by keeping us focused, always knowing the dances, uses words of encouragement and comes ready to push us to our full potential. During game days she comes with her hair always perfect and makeup perfect. She is full of energy and remind us why we all love doing what we do.
What is your favorite memory of Kirstie?
I have a thousand wonderful memories about Kirstie but the one that stands out the most over this year was sitting down in a circle after a stressful practice we had trying to get one of our dances ready for state that weekend. She sat us all down and told us how strong of a team we are, how proud our coach was and how proud she was to be our captain. She talked about hope faith and love as a team and it touched us all that night after practice.
Can you tell us a time when Kirstie made you laugh?
She has humor all the time and there is never a dull moment when I'm around her. She makes every hard situation bearable with her humor.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Movie: How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days TV Show: Pretty Little Liars
Anything else you want to tell us about Kirstie?
Kirstie is one of the most supportive and dedicated person I know. She has made me personally into such a strong person, more confident and into a leader I never thought was possible.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Meet Samantha Stokes - May 2014 Cheerleader of the Month - University of Central Missouri
Dennis H. (Boyfriend)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Precious
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
When we went to Springfield and picked up our German shepherd puppy together and how excited she was to hold him.
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
It was hilarious teaching her how to drive a Manual vehicle. She probably wouldn't think the experience was very funny however.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
Samantha is a great girl with a huge heart. Dedication is something she doesn't lack and she doesn't hold back. She can be timid at first, but once she's out of her shell... World watch out.
Precious
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
When we went to Springfield and picked up our German shepherd puppy together and how excited she was to hold him.
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
It was hilarious teaching her how to drive a Manual vehicle. She probably wouldn't think the experience was very funny however.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
Samantha is a great girl with a huge heart. Dedication is something she doesn't lack and she doesn't hold back. She can be timid at first, but once she's out of her shell... World watch out.
Myra H. (Dennis H's Mom)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Responsible
Responsible
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
Anytime she laughs out loud. Samantha has the most infectious laugh.
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
Teasing Dennis' dad.
Anytime she laughs out loud. Samantha has the most infectious laugh.
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
Teasing Dennis' dad.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
Samantha is a very dependable and responsible young lady with a loving heart. It is a pleasure and joy to have her as a part of family.
Allie R. (Teammate)
Samantha is a very dependable and responsible young lady with a loving heart. It is a pleasure and joy to have her as a part of family.
Allie R. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
In just one word, dedication would be the word to describe Sam. She is so dedicated to cheerleading as a whole, but especially to her teammates as captain. No matter the situation, Sam will never give up on herself or any of her teammates. She is always striving to be better and wants nothing but success. Sam puts her teammates before herself and is such a great role model. Sam never gives up and is always giving everything she has.
In just one word, dedication would be the word to describe Sam. She is so dedicated to cheerleading as a whole, but especially to her teammates as captain. No matter the situation, Sam will never give up on herself or any of her teammates. She is always striving to be better and wants nothing but success. Sam puts her teammates before herself and is such a great role model. Sam never gives up and is always giving everything she has.
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
You will never find Sam without a smile on her face. She always has a positive attitude on every situation and is always there to brighten everyone’s day. Sam is always giving her all at every practice and game pushing her self to be the best she can be. Whether at practice, a game, or at camp, Sam is always there pushing herself and teammates to their fullest potential.
You will never find Sam without a smile on her face. She always has a positive attitude on every situation and is always there to brighten everyone’s day. Sam is always giving her all at every practice and game pushing her self to be the best she can be. Whether at practice, a game, or at camp, Sam is always there pushing herself and teammates to their fullest potential.
Aaron B. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Tough
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
All of the time.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Anything Disney.
Tough
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
All of the time.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Anything Disney.
Megan M. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Strong-Minded
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She not only tells you how to do something but shows you herself.
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
Being able to cheer with her during the national championship basketball game.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
She is a great leader for our team.
Strong-Minded
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She not only tells you how to do something but shows you herself.
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
Being able to cheer with her during the national championship basketball game.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
She is a great leader for our team.
Kelli W. (Head Coach)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Strong
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She uses her background knowledge in cheerleading to be a great Captain. She stands out academically, publicly, and on the sidelines as one of my most dependable cheerleaders. She is always focused on what she is doing and is NEVER afraid to try new stunts.
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
When we were in the mall in Evansville, Indiana for the National Championship game and a couple of the girls and guys wanted to stunt...well lets just say her stunt didn't go as planned and was very awkward looking. I got a picture of it and posted it on facebook and twitter. I'm not sure I have ever laughed that hard in my life.
What is one of Samantha's biggest cheer strength?
Her ability to lead in any game day situation, step up to anything that is asked of her, and is never afraid to lead by example. She is one of my strongest coed and all girl stunters.
Strong
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She uses her background knowledge in cheerleading to be a great Captain. She stands out academically, publicly, and on the sidelines as one of my most dependable cheerleaders. She is always focused on what she is doing and is NEVER afraid to try new stunts.
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
When we were in the mall in Evansville, Indiana for the National Championship game and a couple of the girls and guys wanted to stunt...well lets just say her stunt didn't go as planned and was very awkward looking. I got a picture of it and posted it on facebook and twitter. I'm not sure I have ever laughed that hard in my life.
What is one of Samantha's biggest cheer strength?
Her ability to lead in any game day situation, step up to anything that is asked of her, and is never afraid to lead by example. She is one of my strongest coed and all girl stunters.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
I can safely say that I can call her my friend as well as a leader on my team. I'm looking forward to having 2 more years of her as my captain!
I can safely say that I can call her my friend as well as a leader on my team. I'm looking forward to having 2 more years of her as my captain!
Hannah B. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Well-round. It counts if it's hyphenated!
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She's the first to volunteer to do something, or teach someone a new stunt or help with cheers. She always has on her game face and is always ready for what's next. She's a well rounded leader who pushes us to be our best.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
She reminds me a lot of Katniss so I'd say her favorite movie is The Hunger Games
Well-round. It counts if it's hyphenated!
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She's the first to volunteer to do something, or teach someone a new stunt or help with cheers. She always has on her game face and is always ready for what's next. She's a well rounded leader who pushes us to be our best.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
She reminds me a lot of Katniss so I'd say her favorite movie is The Hunger Games
Zach W. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Passionate
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
Sam does what needs to do in order for the team to be successful.
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
Sam does what needs to do in order for the team to be successful.
Passionate
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
Sam does what needs to do in order for the team to be successful.
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
Sam does what needs to do in order for the team to be successful.
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
When Sam said that she had to fart and to be carful when I caught her.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Up.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
She is someone that might not do every thing that people love but she does them for the good of the team.
When Sam said that she had to fart and to be carful when I caught her.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Up.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
She is someone that might not do every thing that people love but she does them for the good of the team.
Abby R. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Determined
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She is spirited, loud, and always has a smile on her face. Overall a great leader and role model!
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
Basketball season slide line... At all times!
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
She had knowledge of the game, so we cracked each other up throughout each and every game just talking about each if the teams.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Bring it on... Just because she reminds me of those girls!
Kyra W. (Teammate)
Determined
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She is spirited, loud, and always has a smile on her face. Overall a great leader and role model!
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
Basketball season slide line... At all times!
Can you tell us a time when Samantha made you laugh?
She had knowledge of the game, so we cracked each other up throughout each and every game just talking about each if the teams.
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Bring it on... Just because she reminds me of those girls!
Kyra W. (Teammate)
What is one word that describes Samantha?
Dedicated
Dedicated
How does Samantha lead by example during practices and game days?
She is always a role model for fellow teammates and for the community. She always has a smile on her face, she works so hard during practices, and really motivates everyone else to work just as hard so we can look the best we can, as a squad and family. During games she is constantly moving and spiriting and pumping us up to get the crowd motivated!
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
My favorite memory is when we roomed together during camp my freshman year!
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Bring it on. Of course.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
She works so hard for this team! She goes to school full time, works Part-Time and has been leading our squad as captain for the second year... I don't know how she does it! She is more dedicated to this squad than anyone (except coach). I am proud to have Sam as a captain, teammate, and friend!:)
She is always a role model for fellow teammates and for the community. She always has a smile on her face, she works so hard during practices, and really motivates everyone else to work just as hard so we can look the best we can, as a squad and family. During games she is constantly moving and spiriting and pumping us up to get the crowd motivated!
What is your favorite memory of Samantha?
My favorite memory is when we roomed together during camp my freshman year!
Without asking her, what would you guess is her favorite all-time movie?
Bring it on. Of course.
Anything else you want to tell us about Samantha?
She works so hard for this team! She goes to school full time, works Part-Time and has been leading our squad as captain for the second year... I don't know how she does it! She is more dedicated to this squad than anyone (except coach). I am proud to have Sam as a captain, teammate, and friend!:)
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Interview with Kelli Rappard; Head Cheer Coach of the Wichita State Shockers
Before the NCAA Tournament begin, We Cover Cheer interviewed Kelli Rappard about her team and the upcoming NCAA tournament!
1. How long have you been the coach for the Wichita State Shockers Cheer team?
I'm finishing up my 6th year of coaching at WSU.
2. Tell us a little bit about your cheer background.
I started gymnastics and acrobatics at 2 years old and I guess it just grew from there... I cheered for little league football teams (my brother was on them), then in high school and continued on to the college level. When I was in college, we were a competitive team (it was the first time I had competed in cheer) and I really liked it.
During college I started working for Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) and taught summer camps throughout the nation. After a few years of being an instructor, I was appointed to the Head Instructor of Kansas position and was the leader for most of the Kansas camps. I worked for UCA for 13 years... during that time I was sent across the nation, internationally, and had the opportunity to judge at the State, Regional, National, and World levels.
3. What is your favorite thing about coaching cheer?
Working with new athletes and teaching them the skills to become more elite. I also really like teaching the traditions of WSU and what it means to be a Shocker!
4. What is the atmosphere like in Charles Koch Arena for Shockers home basketball games? What are some of the things your team does to make the atmosphere even better?
The games these past few years are CRAZY! The crowd is so loud and excited it becomes deafening at times. Our crowd enjoys good basketball; they are also not afraid to call out a ref or a team for bad calls or bad plays. We have several traditional cheers that the crowd will yell with us; as well as band chants and dances. Our rule of thumb is that there should never be girls on the ground during a timeout... we stunt and tumble to keep the interest during this time. At least whenever we're not helping with marketing and promotions, which are whole new experiences upon themselves.
5. Every year the Shockers are a quality team, but this year being undefeated in regular season play, how has cheering this year been versus previous years?
It really hasn't changed what we do so much as it's changed the feeling in Wichita. We are usually considered the "little brother" of other D1 schools in Kansas... even while walking across campus you'd see people in KU or KSU clothing... Now, everywhere you look it's black and yellow! Stores have painted their windows, decals are on cars, and Wu (our mascot) is everywhere.
6. Playing in the NCAA tournament is very exciting for any team and the spirit squads share that excitement. How does preparing for the NCAA tournament different than any other game?
The timeouts are usually longer so we have to plan more organized things to do for entertainment of the crowd. Also, there’s hardly ever a warm-up area in the host arenas so that makes being safe a little interesting sometimes. The biggest difference is that it's on a national media level at all times... we never know when the camera is going to pan to the cheerleaders for a shot, someone will post to social media about the cheerleaders (good or bad) and we have no control over what people say.
7. What have been some of the highlights of the year for your team been?
Other than all the excitement surrounding games, we've really come together in the past few years as a competitive team again. We have always ranked 4th or 5th in the nation at UCA competitions, but this year we placed 3rd in the nation and 10th in the World Competitions. We also had a partner stunt couple place 12th and our mascot took home 4th.
It's always a highlight to cheer in front of 10,506 at CKA though... there's nothing that can beat that many people cheering for the Shockers for 40 minutes of game time.
8. What are some of the goals you set for your team this year? How did you and your teamwork to achieve them?
One of our goals was to place in the top 3 of the nation at our competition (next year we're gunning for #1) and we managed to accomplish that! Other goals included getting new mats for the team (check) and raising more than $10,000 for our budget (we are so close!).
Thank you to Kelli for her time and interview with We Cover Cheer!
1. How long have you been the coach for the Wichita State Shockers Cheer team?
I'm finishing up my 6th year of coaching at WSU.
2. Tell us a little bit about your cheer background.
I started gymnastics and acrobatics at 2 years old and I guess it just grew from there... I cheered for little league football teams (my brother was on them), then in high school and continued on to the college level. When I was in college, we were a competitive team (it was the first time I had competed in cheer) and I really liked it.
During college I started working for Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) and taught summer camps throughout the nation. After a few years of being an instructor, I was appointed to the Head Instructor of Kansas position and was the leader for most of the Kansas camps. I worked for UCA for 13 years... during that time I was sent across the nation, internationally, and had the opportunity to judge at the State, Regional, National, and World levels.
3. What is your favorite thing about coaching cheer?
Working with new athletes and teaching them the skills to become more elite. I also really like teaching the traditions of WSU and what it means to be a Shocker!
4. What is the atmosphere like in Charles Koch Arena for Shockers home basketball games? What are some of the things your team does to make the atmosphere even better?
The games these past few years are CRAZY! The crowd is so loud and excited it becomes deafening at times. Our crowd enjoys good basketball; they are also not afraid to call out a ref or a team for bad calls or bad plays. We have several traditional cheers that the crowd will yell with us; as well as band chants and dances. Our rule of thumb is that there should never be girls on the ground during a timeout... we stunt and tumble to keep the interest during this time. At least whenever we're not helping with marketing and promotions, which are whole new experiences upon themselves.
5. Every year the Shockers are a quality team, but this year being undefeated in regular season play, how has cheering this year been versus previous years?
It really hasn't changed what we do so much as it's changed the feeling in Wichita. We are usually considered the "little brother" of other D1 schools in Kansas... even while walking across campus you'd see people in KU or KSU clothing... Now, everywhere you look it's black and yellow! Stores have painted their windows, decals are on cars, and Wu (our mascot) is everywhere.
6. Playing in the NCAA tournament is very exciting for any team and the spirit squads share that excitement. How does preparing for the NCAA tournament different than any other game?
The timeouts are usually longer so we have to plan more organized things to do for entertainment of the crowd. Also, there’s hardly ever a warm-up area in the host arenas so that makes being safe a little interesting sometimes. The biggest difference is that it's on a national media level at all times... we never know when the camera is going to pan to the cheerleaders for a shot, someone will post to social media about the cheerleaders (good or bad) and we have no control over what people say.
7. What have been some of the highlights of the year for your team been?
Other than all the excitement surrounding games, we've really come together in the past few years as a competitive team again. We have always ranked 4th or 5th in the nation at UCA competitions, but this year we placed 3rd in the nation and 10th in the World Competitions. We also had a partner stunt couple place 12th and our mascot took home 4th.
It's always a highlight to cheer in front of 10,506 at CKA though... there's nothing that can beat that many people cheering for the Shockers for 40 minutes of game time.
8. What are some of the goals you set for your team this year? How did you and your teamwork to achieve them?
One of our goals was to place in the top 3 of the nation at our competition (next year we're gunning for #1) and we managed to accomplish that! Other goals included getting new mats for the team (check) and raising more than $10,000 for our budget (we are so close!).
Thank you to Kelli for her time and interview with We Cover Cheer!
Thursday, April 10, 2014
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Spirit Squad Takes a Cold Polar Plunge
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| Photo courtesy of University of Nebraska Spirit Squad |
Cheerleaders are known for their enthusiastic spirit of supporting their school’s team’s athletes but the Nebraska Spirit Squad has made it their mission to support all athletes, even ones who are not wearing Husker red and white. The Nebraska Spirit Squad spends one day every year jumping into frigid water to support the Nebraska Special Olympics Athletes. On March 1, 2014, twenty-five Nebraska Huskers cheerleaders, their coach, and their squad manager showed their support of the Special Olympics by being the first group to go plunging into the freezing water of Holmes Lake in with many other plungers who were sporting outrageous costumes. Coach Erynn Nicholson stated “We were all proud to be able to show our support of other athletes in our community along with the Huskers!”
This year marks the seventh anniversary of the Spirit Squad’s participation in the Polar Plunge. One of the younger members of the squad remarked, “I am glad that we were the first to run in”. This year also marks the largest amount of team members to join in the plunge at a whopping twenty-five team members. While it means a lot to the Nebraska Special Olympics, this experience has a great impact on the participants. “Overall, we were excited to be involved with such an incredible organization, and having the opportunity to tip off this great event was such an honor for our team” sophomore cheerleader, Jessie, stated. No matter how wonderful and uplifting the experience was, the whole event was still somewhat painful, which just attests to the team’s dedication and strength. One cheerleader, Haley, spoke of how the bitter cold (at only 8 degrees not including wind-chill) colored her thoughts on the experience. “I wanted to cry when I had to take off my extra layers of clothes because I knew it would be all downhill from there. Standing in the cold waiting to be given the signal to run into the water (that was only 34 degrees) was literally painful, and right when were told to go a huge guest of wind came through!” Haley relates of her experience. Haley went on to say that she was grateful for the opportunity but would have liked for the weather to be a little warmer.
The Polar Plunge is a fantastic event for the Nebraska Special Olympics and for the Lincoln community. It gives everyone a chance to come together to support a great cause, have a once in a lifetime experience, and remember to be grateful for everything in his or her life. The team was “amazed at the number of people dressed in costumes, awake, and full of energy for the event” said one cheerleader. The Nebraska Spirit Squad truly knows that the real purpose of cheerleading is to support all athletes and communities no matter what colors are on their uniform.
Written by
Jennifer Cooley
Jennifer Cooley
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