Wednesday, September 10, 2003
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Wednesday, September 10, 2003 |
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National Champs Prepare To Defend Their Title While summer break for most students meant endless hours of rest and relaxation, it means something completely different for dozens of local athletes who spent their summer in the gym getting ready for the upcoming competition season. Athletes at TUCS Cheer Lab in Fayetteville are preparing to defend their first national championship cheer title won in March of this year. "The end of summer marks the beginning of the competition season for competitive cheerleading," says Tucs owner and head coach Lance Stella. "Our athletes spend their summers conditioning, training and perfecting the routines that will be performed during upcoming competitions as we vie for more national championship titles." Competition cheerleading is taking the country by storm as thousands of young hopefuls flock to local gyms, which now number in the thousands, specializing in this type of training, with the hope of being skilled enough to earn a spot on a competition team. Dating a quarterback won't guarantee that spot any longer, but throwing a full twisting back layout might. Local enthusiasm is so great that TUCS recently relocated to a larger, 10,000-square-foot facility off Robinson Road in Fayetteville simply to handle the sheer number of all-stars, tumblers and school teams who choose to train under the industry renowned coaching staff assembled there. The best of the best will fly, twist, tumble and strut their way from city to city competing against other all-star teams equally as eager. Those who are fortunate enough to earn the national title earn not only the adoration of their fans but also the bragging rights that go along with such an honor as competition for talented athletes from gym to gym is high. "It's not all about winning," says Stella, "but winning a national championship title after just two years in business is evidence in our minds that we are doing something right for these kids. Our coaching philosophy combines technical skill, conditioning, strength training and self-motivation. Our goal is truly to help each athlete discover strengths within themselves and recognize the rewards of hard work and dedication. These qualities will help them throughout life." TUCS has grown from one competitive team their first year, to three their second year to an impressive nine competitive cheer and dance teams this year and are positioned to pose a legitimate threat on the cheer and dance circuit. "Our teams compete against gyms from all over the country many of which have won many, many national titles," said TUCS Booster Club President Karol Jones of Tyrone, whose three children all cheer on TUCS teams. "Our name is new but our teams are advancing very quickly and mastering skills that typically take years to perfect. We are all very excited about the upcoming season." In addition to expanding teams, TUCS has also expanded its list of notable coaches this season. Qualified, experienced cheer coaches are as sought after in cheerleading as football coaches on the gridiron. TUCS' successes have undoubtedly contributed to the attraction for many of the industry's top coaches who have made their way to the gym. Most recently, TUCS announced the addition of Mike Johnson to their staff. "Mike brings with him an amazing resume including almost 20 years of cheer and dance experience," said TUCS General Manager Kelli Pollock, herself an industry renowned name who chose to join the TUCS staff this past spring. "From college cheerleading and coaching, including more than thirty national titles, choreography and judging experience, Mike has it all. His dance and choreography talents are as well known as Lance's stunt choreography abilities. We are truly very fortunate to have someone of his caliber on the TUCS staff. The addition of Mike Johnson will make a significant difference to all of our teams." TUCS' season begins with an exhibition Saturday, Sept. 20, from 1-4 p.m. at Southlake Mall in Morrow. Anyone interested in TUCS all-star cheerleading teams and/or tumbling classes can call the gym directly at 770-716-1288 or visit www.tucscheerlab.com.
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