Embrace Change

We’re in that space that exists beyond the reality of cheerleading; the season is over and the new one hasn’t quite begun. None of us are sure whether we’re coming or going.

There is one thing we can all count on, though. Change. It’s inevitable. Programmes, teams, coaches, teammates, levels, are all on the chopping block. Nothing and no one is safe. 

Embrace it. 

Whether you’re a director, or coach, the truth is you have little control over who decides to remain, leave, or try out for your programme. It’s a buyers market, athletes and their families will take their money where they feel their needs, or ambitions, will be best met. This isn’t a criticism about loyalty, it’s just facts. You want athletes who are all in, not unsettled. If an athlete decides they want to move on, wish them well and focus on what you have. I know it’s frustrating when you develop an athlete and they take their skills elsewhere. It hurts personally, because you’ve invested so much of yourself into them. They’ve also paid for a service that you’ve provided. Painful as it might be, it’s best for all parties that they leave. You can’t be carrying someone who isn’t fully invested. 

On the flip side, if you’re an athlete who is seeking new experiences, go for it. You only get one career and you have to get everything you can from it. Leave well, leave respectfully, and walk with grace into your new programme. Coaches talk and WILL tell each other the truth. Programmes are looking for more than just great athletes. They’re looking for good people and good teammates. It’s a team that elevates a programme, not an individual. So start with that mindset. Established athletes won’t take too kindly to someone turning up with a chip on their shoulder either.    

If you’re an athlete who is staying on a programme while you watch others leave, treat it as an opportunity to step up and lead, to upgrade your skills and put yourself in position to be a significant player. OR to give yourself options at the next round of tryouts.

Some of you reading this might think I’ve lost my mind. I haven’t. 

My own situation at AEC is changing, driven by personal circumstances. For the first time in decades I won’t be attached to a team. I’m moving to a role focused solely on tumbling. It’s weird and I’m going to miss it BUT I can see the bigger picture. It means I can prioritise tumbling and will be working with athletes to raise their standards and the teams we can offer. Is it a change that fills me with anxiety? Yes! Can I see the vision? Absolutely.

Change is inevitable. It doesn’t have to be bad. You have what it takes to influence the outcome of whatever you face. Good luck and enjoy the journey. It’ll all be part of another chapter come July 2027. So make sure you’re the protagonist!