The Journey to Competition Season
By Gina Harris - Founder of Cheer Coach Academy
For many cheerleaders and dancers, the excitement is electric as competition season draws near after months of dedicated training. Those countless hours spent perfecting routines and honing skills have all led to this pivotal moment. As a seasoned coach, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this surge of anticipation year after year, and it never ceases to inspire me. Each season brings a fresh wave of enthusiasm, reminding me of the passion and commitment that fuels our journey together.
The Thrill of Victory
My current high school cheer team has achieved an impressive feat - winning the State Championship three times in a row. As a coach, this marks my fifth consecutive State title and seventh overall. Add to that three runner-up titles and multiple State finals appearances, and it's easy to see why I feel a sense of accomplishment.
Learning from Defeat
However, it's crucial to remember that these victories are balanced by many seasons without a State trophy. In my three decades of coaching, I've experienced more losses than wins. These moments of defeat have been invaluable teachers, shaping my coaching philosophy and approach.
The Fine Line Between Victory and Defeat
Cheerleading competitions can be incredibly close, with mere tenths of a point separating the champions from the runners-up. In the past, unexpected mishaps like stepping off the mat or losing a hair bow could cost a team a staggering five points. These experiences have taught me the importance of preparing myself and my teams that the journey and the growth throughout the season is the true victory, not the trophy. Your success cannot hinge on the trophy alone. Success is embracing every victory over the many challenges that happen along the way. Success is the character that is built throughout the season.
Beyond the Trophy: Fostering Personal Growth
The night before each State competition, I have my team members write notes to themselves, which I return after the preliminary competition. This exercise encourages reflection on personal growth, regardless of the competition outcome. It's crucial to emphasize that being part of a cheer team is about much more than winning trophies.
I recently invited my seniors to share their experiences on the cheer team over the past three years with fellow cheerleaders and their parents. Interestingly, not one of them mentioned winning State three years in a row. While they are undoubtedly proud of their achievements, what stood out most was the sense of family they’ve created within the team. They emphasized the invaluable character qualities they’ve developed, which will serve them well long into the future.
Three Values for Success Beyond Placement
1. Know Your Value and Worth
It's essential for coaches and athletes to understand their value beyond their roles in cheerleading. Reflect on who you are outside of the sport to maintain a healthy perspective.
2. Build a Team to Be Their Best ON the Mat
Set achievable goals and celebrate all victories, no matter how small. Recognize progress in both basic and advanced skills to foster a positive team atmosphere.
3. Build a Team to Be Their Best OFF the Mat
Invest in character development alongside skill progression. Address behavioral issues promptly, as team dynamics can significantly impact overall success.
The Importance of Self-Reflection
As coaches and athletes, it's crucial to identify and reflect on your values regularly. This practice ensures that you remain focused on what truly matters, beyond the allure of trophies and titles. Remember, the journey and personal growth are often more valuable than any physical award.
Gina Harris Bio
Gina turned down a career in broadcasting and decided to take her personal life traumas and use them for the good of others and worked as a nonprofit executive serving and inspiring others. After a 25-year nonprofit career, Gina is now an entrepreneur and a sought after national speaker, and consultant.
Gina has shared her experiences in dozens of media outlets including The Huffington Post, The LA Times, and People Magazine to name a few.
Gina became a cheerleader in 8th grade and was an All American cheerleader. She began coaching cheerleading right after high school and has never stopped. She is a seven-time State Championship cheer coach.
Gina is the founder of Cheer Coach Academy, an online training and support resource for cheer coaches serving more than 20,000 coaches around the world.
Gina is a proud (and rare) 6th generation Coloradan, has watched every episode of Survivor, and loves her family more than anything - her husband Rob and her son RJ who is an elite all star cheerleader.
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