The University of Kentucky. The Stingray Allstars. The University of Louisville. Cheer Athletics. 

          What do all of these programs have in common? A winning tradition and a household cheerleading name. When you hear people talk about these programs, you automatically think of something they are famous for and dread competing against them. However, these teams haven’t always been the powerhouses that we view them as today. These squads have made a name for themselves. 
                
            Each program has started from the bottom and worked their way to the top. The Stingray All Stars were founded in 2002 and have built their gym into a powerhouse from Mini level 1 to International Open Coed level 6. Contrary to popular belief, everything hasn’t always been handed to the gym based out of Georgia. The coaches pay incredible attention to detail and perfect each element before competing anything. However, it’s not all about skill. Coach Kyle Bright claims the number one thing they work on in practice is “mental toughness” to prepare their athletes to be successful in stressful situations. 
                
          Other squads become “big names” because of their innovation. When you think of Top Gun Coed, you think of their creative ins and out of each element in their routine, especially the tumbling portion. The University of Kentucky is known for their jaw dropping stunts and pyramids that push the limit in difficulty, while executing each skill perfectly. In the world of cheerleading, success isn’t given; it’s earned. Athletes that step into an already successful program must work just as hard as the people before them to uphold tradition. These power house teams win often, and when they do, seldom question why. 

          What can your squad do to make a name for yourselves? Is it competing something that has never been seen before? Maybe you have great choreography that tempts the judges to get out of their seat and dance with you. I know my team is putting together something that has never been competed before in our division, and we hope to help set the standard for all girl teams everywhere. Get together with your team and brainstorm your strengths and use them to your advantage. Whatever you decide, 2012 is the year to get out there and be the team that the crowd will NEVER forget!

-Tayler Easton