5 Tips For Being A Great cheerLEADER

Hi, Sarah Metts here! 

I am a 7th year NCA Head Instructor for the Northeast region. I have been attending NCA cheer camps since I was 8-years-old, so I bleed red, white, and blue. I am from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where I attended Temple University and was a captain of the cheer squad in 2019. Currently, I work full-time as a news reporter in Central, PA and you might have seen my face before on Varsity TV when I've interviewed teams at NCA All-Star Nationals in 2020. 

Here are my 5 tips for being a great cheerLEADER:

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1. Always lead by example

Little eyes are always upon you, so make sure you are always being your absolute best. One of my favorite quotes from an NCA favorite poem, Little Eyes Upon You, is “There’s a wide-eyed little person who believes you’re always right, and their eyes are always opened and they’re rewatching you day and night. You are setting the example every day in all you do, for the little person who is waiting to grow up and be just like you!” 

So remember do your best not only for yourself and for the people who stand next to you on the mat, but also for those who look up to you from afar. 

2. Be Approachable

The best quality a leader can have is approachability. I like to apply the ‘5-feet-away’ rule; when you come in contact with someone who is less than 5 feet away, you should always say hi and try to engage in a conversation. One simple ‘hello’ can really make someone’s day. 

3. Believe In Your Purpose

Your purpose will fuel your passion. You have to do everything wholeheartedly. Believe what you are saying when you are crowd leading during a game day, and believe what you are doing on the mat for competitions.

4. Be A Role Model On And Off The Mat

Remember you always represent your team both inside the cheer gym, and out. A cheerleader's job is never over! 

5. Be Confident

Wear your uniform PROUD. It is an honor to represent your school, and be a part of the cheerleading team.