3 Cheers for the Coach

My experience as a cheerleading coach has been quite interesting, but definitely one that I do not care to repeat. I just wanted to give the girls an opportunity to try cheerleading. I didn’t want the program cancelled just because there was no coach. But, honestly, I do not know what I am doing. It seems accurate to say that coaches have much more to offer when they actually know something about the sport. The best coaches seem to have a real passion for their sports too.

I do not know anything about cheerleading. I was never a cheerleader. I do not have rhythm. I am not skilled at gymnastics. I do not even look cute in a skirt! What was I thinking?

The Upward sports program is more about faith than it is about sports. Each practice contains a devotion. The devotions build upon each other through the season, with the goal of teaching children about salvation through Jesus. Thankfully, I am comfortable leading a group of young girls through a devotion. So, that part of our weekly practices is going well.

As for the cheer part, I am counting on the fact that the girls are young, and they are cute, so no one will care that our cheers are a mess. I did manage to learn some very basic fundamental moves and stances. They are able to call out a cheer, and clap together (most of the time). After that, it is anyone’s guess as to what will happen.

Four of the girls are 6-8 years old, and seem to be able to learn the cheer combinations just fine. Three of the girls are 5 years old, either by chronological age or by developmental age. In any sport, 5-year olds are the ones who are easily distracted. Cheerleading is no different. That is why I am counting on their adorable presence to get us big applause!

Jersey #3’s first flag football game is scheduled for next week. His sisters will be cheering for that game. Jersey #3 is one of those easily distracted 5-year olds, too. This could get interesting.