Cheerleading has evolved into an incredibly dynamic, empowering and inclusive sport and we’re here for it!

In the past, SVGTC has passed on Cheerleading. When I was in middle school and high school most of my experience with cheerleading only reinforced stereotypes of a sport that literally sidelined girls to cheer on boys who enjoyed the limelight. Often this included short skirts, lots of makeup and weird social power dynamics . It was objectifying and sometimes very unsafe. My school’s cheer program lacked the equipment, mats and expert coaching needed to safely teach stunts and tumbling. As a gymnast I tried out for cheerleading in high school and was altogether freaked out by the culture difference from gymnastics.

When I opened SVGTC the mission was to empower kids through sports. I have always held tightly to a very specific vision for the gym and the contribution I hope it makes here in the valley. While cheerleading was not initially in line with our mission, the sport has undergone an incredible evolution. We’ve revisited the idea once or twice and at this point, we’re enthusiastically all in. Just this past month the International Olympic Committee also signaled their support for the sports transformation in granting Cheerleading full recognition. Today Cheerleading is a dynamic sport. Cheerleaders are inarguably real athletes. They are powerful, skilled and strong.

One of the most remarkable aspects of modern cheerleading is its inclusivity. We’ll be leaning heavy into this. This sport embraces individuals of all genders, backgrounds, and abilities. It encourages a diverse range of participants to come together as a team, united by their passion for excellence and their support for one another. Cheerleading is now a platform where kids can showcase their talents and celebrate their individuality, while building something great together!

Last year we launched Storm Cheer promising to focus on building a strong, safe base. With the hard work of some really fantastic kids, that mission was accomplished. This year we’re expanding to competitive cheer!

Competitive cheer can pick up slack for drama and cut throat dynamics. Our staff is solidly on the same page that we are cheering for the benefit of kids and we’ll be positive, inclusive and collaborative. Families who choose Storm cheer at SVGTC can expect professional coaching, a positive atmosphere and steadfast commitment to always doing what is right for kids. We’re entering the cheer world with all of the same values we’ve held close for our gymnastics and ninja programs over the past thirteen years.

Cheerleading is a risky sport and the safety of the children in all of our programs remains our constant, unwavering first priority. Our coaches are experts who are passionate about continuing to learn and stay up to date on safe progressions and injury prevention. SVGTC’s 10,000 square foot gym is equipped with crash mats and various training aids to help children reach for their dreams and expand their skills with a soft, safe place to land. Trampolines, tumble tracks and soon a state of the art air pit are a small but important part of our ongoing commitment to investing in the kids of this valley.

Storm Cheer kids stand to gain important life skills like the incredible power of collaboration, communication, and support while being healthy and active. These qualities translate into confident and empowered individuals who can face challenges head-on and work together to achieve greatness. With all of this in mind., we are committed to continuing to invest in kids and the sports they love.

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Let’s go Storm Cheer!