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Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Teamwork: Millbrook's JV and Special needs Cheerleading Squads Work Together in an Inspiring Partnership
Raleigh Durham, NC
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The story of the Millbrook Special Needs Cheerleaders is anything but ordinary.
The idea for the squad began last year when Shannon Stone, Millbrook’s JV Cheerleading Coach, attended a Cheer Elite competition and witnessed an extraordinary performance by a Special Needs Squad from Lee County.
Upon returning to her own school, Shannon immediately gathered her JV Cheerleaders and explained the concept, and the squad was enthusiastic from the beginning.
In fact, Shannon says that her biggest challenge is selecting which cheerleaders will get to coach the Special Needs Squad. She runs the program as fairly as possible by choosing sponsors based on their schedule availability.
This year, the squad is scheduled to perform at the NCHSAA and Wake County Cheerleading Competitions. To prepare for the 2008-2009 season, the JV and Special Needs Squads have already teamed up to start going over choreography.
Before any of the routine is created, both squads participate in a brainstorming session to find out what the Special Needs Cheerleaders are currently interested in. This year, the girls wanted their dance choreographed to Camp Rock and Rhianna. Additionally, the JV girls will throw in some cheers and jumps for a well-balanced routine.
Last year, the Special Needs Squad attended two competitions with a routine that brought the crowd to a standing ovation at each.
“Their performance brought tears to the audience’s eyes. Women, men, and children alike…everyone was moved,” Shannon said.
The Special Needs Cheerleaders are natural performers. They admit to a little pre-stage fright, but once they get on the floor, it is all about having fun, and the nerves disappear.
When asked what they like best about cheerleading, “Dancing!” was closely followed by “Tumbling!”, “Jumping!”, and “Cheering!” It is clear these athletes love every aspect of their sport.
Shannon describes both squads as an “amazing group of girls.” The Special Needs girls show incredible spirit and commitment to their practices and performances and the JV girls are adamant about giving back to their community.
It is evident the JV sponsors take great pride in their partnership with the Special Needs girls when watching practice and listening to them discuss the personalities of the Special Needs Cheerleaders. The JV girls share tips on what teaching techniques work best with whom and share stories on progress and breakthroughs.
Millbrook hopes to inspire other schools to initiate their own Special Needs Cheerleading programs and wishes to host the first annual Special Needs Cheerleading Competition on its campus.
If you would like to learn more about Millbrook’s Special Needs Squad or find out how to start a similar program at your school, please contact Shannon Stone at Millbrook High School by calling (919) 850-8787.
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