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By Steve Pawlyk

Published July 17, 2023

Cheerleading is a sport that requires not only physical strength and agility but also a strong spirit and a resilient mindset. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, triumphs, and setbacks. One such challenge that many cheerleaders face is the feeling of not being good enough, especially when they see their peers advancing faster. This article aims to provide advice and guidance to those cheerleaders who are facing such situations, using a real-life example of a sophomore cheerleader on a Junior Varsity (JV) team who posted about her situation on reddit.

The Struggle

Our cheerleader, a dedicated sophomore on the JV team, recently faced a setback when she didn’t make it to the competition team, while some of her JV teammates, including freshmen, did. This situation can be disheartening and can lead to feelings of inadequacy. However, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s journey in cheerleading is unique, and progress can vary from person to person.

Overcoming First Impressions

Our cheerleader had a challenging time picking up cheers during her first year due to personal reasons, which might have led to a less-than-stellar first impression. However, it’s important to remember that first impressions aren’t everything. Coaches understand that everyone has off days or even off seasons. What matters more is your commitment to improvement and your dedication to the sport.

Improving Skills and Building Confidence

Despite her initial struggles, our cheerleader has seen significant growth in her skills and confidence. She has mastered all the cheers during the basketball season and improved her toe touch significantly. This is a testament to her hard work and dedication. It’s crucial to celebrate these victories, no matter how small they may seem. Every step forward is a step towards becoming a better cheerleader.

Dealing with Fear and Uncertainty

The fear of not making the team in a future season is a common concern among cheerleaders. However, it’s important to remember that setbacks are a part of the journey. They are not a reflection of your worth or your abilities as a cheerleader. Instead of focusing on the fear of failure, focus on what you can control: your effort, your attitude, and your commitment to improvement.

Building Relationships with Teammates

Our cheerleader is close with some of the freshmen but hasn’t had much interaction with her peers or the upperclassmen. Building relationships with teammates can be a great source of support and camaraderie. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get to know them better. You’re all part of the same team, working towards the same goals. It’s also good to remember that upperclassmen are just as nervous/insecure as you are. Everybody in high school is. I realize it’s hard to see at this age, but trust me, a good rule of thumb is that the more bravado/mean-girlish attitude they display, the more scared they are. Don’t try to win these ones over. Find the athletes on your team who don’t behave like this and be genuine with them, they will almost certainly reciprocate.

Being a cheerleader is about more than just the cheers and the stunts. It’s about resilience, perseverance, and personal growth. So, to our JV cheerleader and all others facing similar challenges, remember: every setback is a setup for a comeback. Keep pushing, keep improving, and most importantly, keep cheering. Your journey as a cheerleader is just beginning, and there’s so much more to look forward to.