The Saddleback Valley Bears are not new to nationals. They have been here before, with an exception of 3 girls and the coaches. The coaching staff is new this year with head coach, Mekayla, having cheered since she was 7 and having coached Allstars. Although the girls weren’t as sure of their coaches that they would make it here, they still worked very hard and pushed with strong determination to make to Florida. The team agreed that their dance and stunting was their favorite part of their routine. Having almost lost girls and adapting to a new coaching staff, the Bears surely persevered and made it.
The coaches love how Pop Warner prepares the girls for high school and after with their educational requirements and how the girls cheer for games as well as compete. It is a very community based program, and encourages teamwork and friendships. With all their fundraising, commitment, and teamwork throughout the season, their coaches are so proud of how far they have come and how hard they have tried. Their girls inspire them each day. Mekayla says her mother has been a mentor and inspiration to her throughout cheer, having coached her and coached with her. Assistant coach, Sesilia, says Mekayla has been a mentor in the way she has helped her transition into the position and has helped her to learn all that she knows. For this team, it is not about winning, but about giving it their all.

The Temecula Valley Fighting Kodiaks are new to nationals, and for half the team, completely new to cheer. The team had practiced very hard and put a lot of effort into their routine. Their hardest challenge of the year was perfecting their team forward roll. With all the time and dedication they definitely improved and did an amazing job with it. Considering the short amount of time they had to work on their routine, the teams hard work certainly paid off. The stunting was the collective favorite part of their routine. The coaches believe that Pop Warner has a lot of integrity as a whole. It is a very community based program that empowers the children. They truly love how safety is one of Pop Warner’s top priorities. The coaches would advise that any new coach to the program to have good communication with the families and ensure that they know what is expected of their children. These coaches are so proud of how far their girls have come.

Brielle Dougherty cheers proudly for the Avalon Wolves in the Mid Florida League.  She enjoys Pop Warner and loves that through the program she had made lifelong friend.  She competed with her team Thursday evening and will cherish that memory forever.

The Wolves are a Junior Pee Wee Level one medium team.  Most of them have been cheering for 2, 3, or 4 years.  At their regionals they placed 3^rd.   This is their first year competing at Pop Warner National Cheer and Dance.   They are mostly 4^th, 5^th, and 6^th graders. They proudly cheer for their football team. They have done multiple fundraisers. Some of those include: selling candles and tumblers, bucket drops, and many more fundraisers. Go West Volusia Wolves!

The Anaheim City Lady Rams are a Junior Pee Wee Level 2 Medium team with 13 girls.  Most of the girls have been cheering for 1-2 years. At their regionals they placed 1^st. This is their first time competing on the blue mat at nationals. They are in 4^th, 5^th, and 6^th grade. They cheer for their football team and love doing that. They do several fundraisers such as: carwashes and food collections. Go Rams!

The Tri Town Raiders are a level 2 team. This Jr. Peewee Level 2 Medium team has girls ranging from grades 4 through 6. They are a part of Mid America region from Indiana and have 19 athletes. Many of the girls on their team have been cheering for 1 to 2 years. This year, they placed 1st at regionals. This, however, is not their first year at Nationals. Last year, they performed and came in 6th place. They cheer for their amazing football team every Saturday.  They participated in the  DoubleGood Popcorn fundraiser to raise money for their trip.  They are coached by Terra Lorenze, who has coached for three years.  

The Michigan City Wolves are a Jr. Peewee Level 2 Large team. They have 24 amazingly talented girls in grades 4th, 5th and 6th. They are a level 2 team, with most of the girls cheering for 1 to 4 years with Pop Qarner. This year, they placed 1st at regionals. Their coach, Carla Shepherd has been coaching for 15 years.  She has a granddaughter on the team.  They did fundraisers such as Double Good popcorn and butter braids. They worked extremely hard to get here and they couldn’t be happier. GO WOLVES!!!!


MID AMERICA REGION SPOTLIGHT - FRIDAY
The Independence Patriots JPW team are not just performing today, they also performed in the Dance Division on Thursday and placed 4th in JPW Pom - Way to go!!!

The Dracut Middies are a New England Region Team with a lot of experience traveling to The Pop Warner National Cheer and Dance Competition. Head coach Sandra Russo has travel to nationals 12 out of her 13 years coaching. She knows how to prepare her Regional Champion Junior Pee Wee team of 18. While the team was practicing hard to make their mark here in Orlando, they also put a lot of effort into fundraising. The Double Good Popcorn sale, music bingo (google it, because it looks like a lot of fun) and canning all helped offset travel expenses.  Coach Russo said all aspects of getting to Orlando were easy because Dracut is a well run organization that works as a team. More importantly, Dracut and Pop Warner put the kids first and that’s what it’s all about for her too.  After spending a day at Hollywood Studios as a team, they are ready to take the mat. The coaches have confidence in their team and the girls work to control their nerves. They are reminded to never give up, be confident and that all it takes is one magic moment. Good Luck Dracut!

The Brookfield Bobcats team is in their first year of competitive Cheer. The team consists of mostly younger girls, with this also being a newly formed team. To watch these little dynamos, you don't see their nervousness because their excitement and adrenaline is what they protrude. They are simply happy to be here.

As I met the coaches of Sayreville Jr Bombers they were partaking of the "lucky gum" tradition.  Stick of gum before the warm up mat is their tradition and lucky charm.  Head Coach Jessica Crimmins has been to Nationals before but for many of her team, it was a first time to Florida, let along the first time to Nationals.  When I asked them what they did to get this team here they all chorused "Patience!"  Then they went onto to explain how they made the practices fun for the team. "We did lots of games with them with competitions within the team."  The girls described for me their "Sass Queen" contest.  The girls had competitions within themselves for the sassiest attitudes on the floor.  The winner got to keep the trophy for the day. "And when you won it on Friday, you got to keep it for Friday, Saturday, Sunday and bring it back on Monday!"  The girls also explained that they were "a friendly team that worked very good together.  We are a family!"  The coaches agreed that as a team, these girls worked well together.  As the coaches have their gum tradition, the girls have a cheer tradition that they do before they take the mat which helps them "go all the way" to a title. 

The Delran Bears Coaches are not new to competing at Disney, although more tan half of this young team is.  So they have a number of superstitions they partake in for every competition.  "We have to give Lisa Moroski a hug."  starts Coordinator Debby Kahn.  "We have multiple sets of rosary beads.  One parent carries a statue of Mary.  We dress the same way for every competition, right down to the underwear." The Delran Bears have a rather unique style of coaching.  Debby explains, "Head coach is sort of in name only because we all are a part of each team.  They start to tune us out after a while but when we all say the same thing, it does start to sink in.  Then we have our SNTs." Brand new coaches with a new voice are referred to as shiny new toys and they can make an impact just because they are new voices. Last year, this team came down to Disney and did not place.  The retuning girls did not want to feel that way again.  But as Debby kept telling them, "You gotta want it more than we do.  We always want great things for you but placing at Nationals is something you gotta want to make it happen."

MID SOUTH REGION SPOTLIGHT - FRIDAY

Christy Craig is the head coach of the Lake Norman Giants, Jr. Pee Wee team.  This is her 8th season coaching and 5th season competing at the national championships.  It's been a very successful season, because they've received so much support from their association, community and league. 

THURSDAY JR REPORTER KATELYN BUTTIGLIERI

Katelyn is a 7 year veteran cheerleader with the Level 4 Varsity Team, competing on Thursday evening with the Avalon Wolves.  She has been on the National mat 5 times, placing 4^th, 3^rd and 2^nd in the past.  She is looking for her first National Championship.  She enjoys assisting the younger teams with training and conditioning.
Introducing the Cleveland Rams from Cleveland North Carolina.  Coached by Kristi Benvenuto, they are competing on Friday in the Jr Pee Wee Level 1 Medium Division. They all agreed that their favorite part of the routine is the tumbling and the end of dance.  They have kept busy since they arrived on Sunday with practice and going to the parks and the favorite is Disney Hollywood Studios.  What they most enjoy about the Pop Warner season is meeting new people when practice starts and coming to Nationals at Disney as friends.
The Odell Eagles, from North Carolina is competing tomorrow in the Jr. Pee Wee  Level 2 Medium Division.  This is their 1^st times ever making it to National.  The favorite part of the routing is the stunting.  They enjoyed wearing their team colors, Green, Black and White as they visited their favorite parks, the Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom.  They are coached by Melissa Brown, who is coaching this team for the first time this year. 



THURSDAY JR REPORTER BELLA ISOLICA
Bella has cheered for the Avalon Wolves for the past 6 years.  She is competing on Thursday night in the Level 4 Large category with her 31 teamates.  Her team has not yet won a National title, placing 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th in the past.

The Oviedo Lions from Florida was not at Disney Wide World of Sports to compete at the National Cheer and Dance competition.  They came here today to cheer on their football team, playing today against the Panama Sharks in the International Division.  They are a Junior varsity level 2 Medium team.  They have competed at nationals  twice, the most recent being in 2018, when they placed 4^th.  Their favorite part of the routine is the stunting, and love doing heel stretches.

All the way from Philadelphia, the home of Pop Warner, I spoke with the Northwest Raiders.  They competed today as a Pee Wee Hip Hop Team,, and competed on Sunday in the Level 2 Medium Division.  This is their 2^nd trip to Nationals.  Their favorite part of the cheer routine is the dance, and they love performing their Hip Hop Routine.  They have had fun visiting the Hollywood Studios.

EASTERN REGION BROADCAST SPOTLIGHT
The North Rockland Red Raider JV team are no strangers to the National stage.  "They have been here and they have succeeded here as a Level 3." says head Coach Doreen Garrison.   "This year the question was - do we want another National Crown in Level 3 where we have been so dominant?  or do we want to challenge ourselves and go for Level 4."  In her mind there was no question.  She was ready to push her team. "We believe in challenging our participants as athletes and as people."  So she began early in the season.  "I started working on the team chemistry early in the season, figuring out what groups would work best together and make the strongest stunt teams."  From there, it was on going pursuit of next level skills, fueled by a good support system.  "We have developed a reputation as the place to be," Doreen explains. " Our parents understand the time and the commitment needed to succeed.  They are very supportive of what we do." 

Mokena Burros - We're Back for our 2nd time at Nationals.  We are hoping for a back to back win.  Mokena Burros joined Pop Warner in 2018.   They were National Champions their very first year.  They are hoping for a repeat in 2019.  Our Motto is - What happens as a team - we do it together!!!!   We are a team and a 2nd family.  We hang out with each other in practice and outside of practice.  We do volunteer work together, most recently working at a homeless shelter.   We love cheer, and many of us feel this is our life. We have such amazing coaches, who truly care about us and support us. They make us work hard, challenge ourselves, but it is all for a good reason.  It makes us a better cheerleader.  We have created a 2nd family for each of us. 
We wish the Mokena Burros good luck as they try for a back to back win!

The Yoruba Linda Lady Jaguars is composed of mostly returning girls who have been to nationals multiple times. The girls have worked so hard for their coaches and themselves alike. They believe their coaches are the reason they have been so successful in returning each year. Throughout the year, they have overcome injuries and changes in their routine. With all their dedication and o themselves and each other they have overcome it and made it this far. For these girls, they are more than just a team, they are a family.

The Palos Verdes Mavericks are new to nationals. They have worked so hard to get here by practicing  and raising the funds. The hardest part of their season was combining both the JV and Varsity teams together. Both the coaches and girls have worked so hard to make this dream a reality and it definitely paid off.  The coaches are all so proud of their girls for overcoming all obstacles and making it here.

The Edgewood Eagles V3 Squad comes from an organization with many years of National Champions, with the dedicated staff putting in over 10 years into their program to make it into what you will see today. This team has pretty much risen through the ranks together, from Mitey Mite until now. They have formed lasting friendships, and while there are a few who will finally be moving on this year, they plan on keeping their family together for many years to come.

Holly Byrd is a veteran National Cheer coach of 3 years with the Roger Bacon Academy Association. She has been very successful the last two seasons becoming possibly one, if not the only, Duo National Champion to win "Sideline & Cheer" Championships back to back. 

The Hamden Junior Dragon Varsity Hip Hop team are living the dream. The Dragons are a brand new Pop Warner association. Cheer Coordinator, Kim Howard said that there are so many different national cheer programs available to participate in but Pop Warner was the only choice for them. They love the opportunities that Pop Warner has to offer the kids. Pop Warner is such a well run organization and most of this 9 member varsity team and coaches came from other Pop Warner cheer programs. The transition was easy. 

The team held a team bonding outing and went to watch Coach Ren during one of the football games.  They had an exciting time.   Such a great opportunity to have a coach that cheers in the NFL.  Unfortunately, Coach Ren had to leave to return to Indiana for Bengal Practice and NFL game but she did get to see us practice before she left. Tri-Town will be performing for the Cincinnati Bengals on December 29th.  The team sent in a video and was selected to perform during the football game (go tri-town). We have had such a busy week here while being at Disney. We are staying at the Caribbean Beach Resort.   Visiting the parks, practicing for our two events.   When we return home, we have practice for another event, and then we will have Dress Rehearsal for the Bengals Game. We have been practicing and preparing for Nationals.   We took First Place at Districts and First Place at Regionals.   We would love to have first place here at Nationals, for either Pom or Hip Hop, maybe both!!!! The girls love Coach Ren and all the other coaches that support them. " They have helped us grow over the past years and become the dancers we are today"   Go Raiderettes!!

MID SOUTH DANCE SPOTLIGHT

The Fontana Bulldogs, like most of Fontana’s teams, have been to nationals multiple times. Their coaches are a mother daughter duo who decided to work together to give back to their community. The coaches put so much time and energy into the routines. The team believes their accomplishment is all thanks to their coaches and everyone’s hard work. The girls all agreed that their favorite part of the routine is little sally walker. The girls had fun with their routine and put it all out on the floor. The girls worked so hard between fundraising and practices, and their coaches are very proud. They have lost and gained girls throughout coaching, but they have pulled through. Both coaches are not only inspired by each other, but they are also inspired every day by their cheerleaders.

The Chino Colts are not new to nationals. They are here because they have worked hard and pushed through the most difficult challenges. The team is small, made up on only 5 girls, which has been a challenge. Even with such a small team, they still placed with their cheer routine and did incredible in their dance. Their coach is also the cheer coordinator and the girls believe it is all thanks to her that they have come this far. The ending of their dance is their favorite part of the routine.

MID AMERICA DANCE SPOTLIGHT
Memorial Park

The Indian River Warrior Varsity Pom Team is a fun loving, very open and friendly group.  When I met the team, they had to corral Taylor from talking to new friends she had just made on another team.  Taylor Laidlaw is aging out this year and is trying to soak in every moment of Nationals this year. Taylor will tell you that going to cheer camp this year was a wonderful start to the season.  "It was great team bonding experience and they really are able to get the new members of this experienced team up to speed very quickly."  From then on, the team worked well together, taking suggestions from each other and helping each other learn and grow. Head Coach Suzanne Schwedler agrees with the importance of team bonding.  "It has been critical to the growth of this team."  she says.  They have done sleep overs and other activities outside of school and cheer to bring the team closer together.  "It definitely has helped as we dealt with injuries and changes all season.  I don't think we have been able to do this routine the same way at any competition this season." Suzanne credits Association Coordinator Sue Adams as her mentor and the heart and soul of this team.  "She is everything to them. She has done everything for this team and they would not be where they are without her guidance." 

It's all about family with the Rochester Rams JV Hip Hop team.  "I got a couple sisters on this team,"  says Head Coach Kassidy McGill.  "I got some cousins on here, I got cousins to the President, I am the daughter of the coordinator, my sister coaches another team.  It means we already have a good relationship with the kids and know how best to motivate them.  I can always tell them I know your mom!"  It also helps them to already be familiar with the organization and what is expected of the participants.  Many of the parents are former participants themselves. Kassidy says the secret to returning to Disney year after year is trying to improve the team from year to year.  "Challenge each team to be better than last year,"  she says.  She coaches JV every year so whenever new ones come up, they are expected to rise to the new level.  "And we really try to think outside the box, we think unusual instead of usual."This is a very experienced team this year and the kids will tell you that their winning formula is keeping their focus on their goals.  They take their dance very seriously and do not put up with anyone who doesn't want to give it their all. 

The Rochester Dolphin organization is just a couple years old.  But they set their sites high!  "We have three teams, next year our goal is to have them all down here" says the coaching staff.  After getting two teams down this year, they know what it takes to get all three into Nationals. The coaches enjoy the structure provided by Pop Warner.  "We like having some rules and guidelines to follow.  It makes things so much easier to start up an organization."  Actually the staff had experience with Pop Warner in the past so they were happy to be returning.  Head Coach Veronique Joseph was a former Pop Warner participant herself with a dream of coming to Disney. The team began with 15 this season but only 5 were able to make the trip.  They were not concerned about their size - they like their routine a lot and enjoy performing it.  And they like their Head Coach very much -"She is very nice, we like her.  But she is very firm!"  

WESCON REGION SPOTLIGHT - WEDNESDAY
The South Coast Tritons are comprised of returners and new girls, both of which are new to nationals. The coaches believe the girls’ teamwork is the largest contributing factor to them reaching nationals. The girls are all very close and work well together. The coaches 

have known each other for years and chose to coach because they believed in their girls. The team did have some difficulty throughout the year with them having lost girls and having to change the routine. The Tritons favorite part of their routine is their stunting, specifically their show and go. The coaching staff all agree that Pop Warner is a great program with incredible values for the children. They love the emphasis on education and the way the girls get both the sideline and competition experience. As new coaches, the Tritons coaches advice to other new coaches would be to be patient, prepared, selfless, and ask as many questions as needed. For this coaching staff, their girls have inspired them to do such. They are so proud of their girls and they should be. Congratulations on placing ladies!

Naperville Chargers are from Mid America and coached by Katelyn Burns. This is their first trip to Disney, coaches and girls.  A new experience for the coaches and the girls.  

Knox Redskins from Northern Indiana are making their first appearance at  Pop Warner Nationals.  Knox Redskins chose  the Core division this year.  Coach Kristen said it was great, as it contained all the fundamentals of cheer, along with the choreography.   "We were allowed to start on our routine early, work through it with the girls, and in the end was able to perform a great routine. We were able to prefect the routine and had great guidance along the way.  I would recommend this for any first time coach, or any coach that is not familiar with creating routines"  Coach Kristen loves watching the girls grow and develop while learning to cheer.   She feels Pop Warner is the place to do this as there is a great focus on Little Scholars.  It helps motivate the girls to do well in school as well as Cheer competitions. Tonight after the competition, we are going to relax and have a pool party.

One Team, One Dream! The Palm City Dolphins Mitey Mite Show Cheer Team is one to watch. The success and strength of a program continue to grow when the participants come back as coaches. Well, this is the case for Coach Summer.  She has diligently cheered for multiple Pop Warner levels.  She is now the head coach of 27 Mitey Mite cheerleaders. The magic of this team doesn’t happen with just one coach.  Summer has five volunteers on the coaching staff, one of which happens to be her father. Just watching this father-daughter duo interact with this group of funny and hard-working girls was inspirational.  Just watching this father-daughter duo interact with this group of funny and hard-working girls was inspirational. Coach Pat cannot talk about how proud he is of this team without getting choked up. According to Coach Summer, the team is super excited to be performing at Nationals this year. “The girls have worked extremely hard all season, which paid off at Regionals,” said coach Summer. Motivating and keeping these many girls together can be challenging, but they make it work. They have a funny and creative way to keep the girl’s emotions and stunts tight, which has worked throughout the season and is being carried on for Nationals. You can tell when someone cheerfully makes the statement because the team starts to laugh. The Palm City Dolphins Mitey Mite move as one. The coaches feel fortunate to have supportive parents who treat each other like one family. When you add coach Pat to the equation, it is the best example of role modeling anyone could ask to have. The magic of the team doesn’t happen with just one coach.

First time for everything!  The Belleview Rattlers Junior Varsity Show Cheer has taken the statement literally.  The team maybe few in numbers but they are large in spirit and heart. Pop Warner must be running through the veins of the head coach because she came to the Southeast Region from another Region and was determined to continue volunteering.  This chatty group of young ladies loves to laugh just a much as they love cheerleading and dance. While talking to the girls, I noticed they were making a video for Savannah. I then asked if it was a cheerleader who was injured. They told me, “We sent a message to Coach Savannah because we miss her and wishes she was here!” Coach Chrystal informed me that Coach Savannah had been ill and was unable to make. 2019 was the Rattlers' first time at Regionals and they made it to Nationals. The excitement of being here didn’t overwhelm this team. The girls really wanted coach Savannah to be a part of the experience. Coach Chrystal and Coach Amanda informed the girls that Coach Savannah was her with them because she is always in their hearts. This delightful team started mimicking all this Coach Savannah would say before a performance. What a way to bring Coach Savannah to Nationals. The girls discussed they were always together which seemed to be an important aspect of the family unit. The spirit of the Southeast Region shines brightly in this team. Go Rattlers!

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! The Boca Braves Junior Pee Wee Core Cheer Team was able to make all flavors thanks to their head coach Shawna When life tried to stop her from doing the things she fought back. With the best set of coaches ever such as Shannon, team parent Aileen, and her sister Krystle, she was able to make the 2019 Pop Warner season memorable.  Her enthusiasm and courageousness are infectious.  Coach Shawna and Krystle are both first time coaches who stepped up to help the team.  To continue with the first, the team won first place at the Regional competition as well as receiving the award for the highest score for Core cheer.  The stellar performance at Regionals earned them a spot at Nationals. “I can’t fully participate at all times, but I am always there in spirit, and they are always in my heart,” said coach Shawna.   With that kind of passion coach, Krystle wanted to support her sister’s dream by being an assistant coach.  She too has a full life, which includes a full-time job, school, and being a single parent.  “My day-to-day can be strenuous at times, but with great time management skills, I am still a Pop Warner volunteer," said coach Krystal. The powerful and positive temperament of the team shows a cohesiveness of their bond.  The team used their bond to conduct multiple fund raiser to make sure they would make it to Disney.  They were able to get a sponsor to fund the entire trip to Nationals. All that I can say is “Lemonade!” Boca Braves Strong! 

For Bennet's Creek's head coach Aynsley Bennett, this is a new experience, as it is her first time at Nationals.  She takes their motto "Warrior Proud" seriously.  Aynsley focused throughout the season on blending practices, to support their football team and preparing for competitions. This worked very well as they have achieved their seasonal goal of competing at Nationals.  Their entire season has been overwhelming, but the girls excitement and love of the sport has made it all worth it.  In closing, she prepared a dynamic and championship routine with amazing stunt groups that will make every proud. 

The Chelmsford Cougars are back this year, and better than ever! This team consists mostly of returning girls that attended Nationals in 2018, with the exception of a few new teammates. They have worked hard this year despite new Staff changes and the disappointment from last year to get here and they are in it to win it!

The Edgewood Eagles V3 Squad comes from an organization with many years of National Champions, with the dedicated staff putting in over 10 years into their program to make it into what you will see today. This team has pretty much risen through the ranks together, from Mitey Mite until now. They have formed lasting friendships, and while there are a few who will finally be moving on this year, they plan on keeping their family together for many years to come.

Edgewood's pinnacle is striving for success. They are proud of the Scholastic focus that Pop Warner requires, since each child has to maintain good grades to participate. The Staff knows that at the end of the day, your School Grades will play an important part of your future, and this is the main reason why they respect Pop Warner and hope to continue their Association for many years.

The Mount Hope Cowboys Varsity Sideline Squad has already proven success with their Performance Cheer First Place win in 2019. Though this is a newly formed squad,the Staff of Mount Hope haven proven multiple times over the past few years that they can coach National Champion Teams. With the girls' determination to win this year, they are hoping to place in their first year of Sideline Performance.

The entire Mount Hope Community has participated in the many fundraising efforts to get the girls here. From bake sales, to raffle tickets, to multiple cannings, the team has been rallied around by their community with an outpouring of support.

Mount Hope has been with the Pop Warner program for many years. While there are other Football programs out there, the Competition within Pop Warner is second to none. The fact that Pop Warner has a Scholastic focus that benefits all children and pushes them to strive academically, is just an added bonus. Mount Hope feels confident that  they will enjoy many more years to come with Pop Warner.

"Move like a snake"  the team likes to say.  But Head Coach Asia Mahammad of the Oak Lane Wildcats JV squad, will tell you that you won't find a nicer group of girls to coach.  "They love what they do."  This group of 9 has 5 members who are returning to Disney this year.  Those returners were very supportive of the new girls.  "And the new girls take direction from the returners so well.  They understand they are trying to help and they do a lot of work outside of practice with each other."  Both coaches are relatively young and understand that they are role models for their team.  "they look up to us and try to give them more than just cheer.  We want them to succeed in life.  And they are so coachable - they are easy to teach."  To get back to Disney this year, Asia explained their secret was proper planning.  "in the past, we often didn't get chance to think too much about our competitive routine until after most of football season was done.  This year we planned the routine out early and knew what we wanted to do."   One of the other things the team did early in the season was a team bonding activity.  "Girls and Pearls - we dressed up and rented a place and had all sorts of fun and got to know each other outside of cheer."  said Asia.  "It started our season out strong and we came together as a team very early." 

Being it is the first year that Mitey Mites could compete, the coaches for the Hazlet Starz thought trying the new Core division might a good way to go.  The emphasis on the fundamentals and basics seemed to make a lot of sense.  Association Coordinator Colleen Deran said it was a good way to go but she wishes the division had included some kind of basic tumbling too.  "Even if it had been forward rolls, since tumbling in general has become such a part of cheerleading, it would have nice to have included some kind of tumbling in the routine. And this team really likes to tumble."  The part they found the most challenging was teaching the stunting.  "It was a small team of 8 so you didn't have a lot of options for positions."  The other challenge to keep from making the routine feel too repetitive.  "You never want the kids to get bored with doing the same things over and over so it was important to find ways to keep it fresh." 
As for the kids, they have enjoyed a little time at parks yesterday. The Frozen ride received a very enthusiastic review from many.  And others are looking forward to going to Animal Kingdom.  Colleen has been the Hazlet Coordinator for 24 years and has fought the fight to keep Hazlet with Pop Warner.  "Pop Warner is first class all the way."  she says.  "We felt the other organizations would like to be Pop Warner.  But there is reason Pop Warner has been around so long.  They do it right." 

When East Greenbush Mitey Mite was looking for a song for their theme dance, the coaches started with Disney ideas. "How can you go wrong picking Disney themes for this age?"  says the coaches. "And they have really had fun with this one."  Under the Sea did prove to be a winner with the team and the judges this year.  And Head Coach Casey Lemons credited her association with  the help and guidance she needed to lead this team to Nationals.  "This is not new to my coordinator and she was a huge help to get this team ready to compete."  She is excited to have her team perform at Nationals.  "We really took the judges advice to heart and acted on their suggestions.  They asked for a little more choreography in some places and little more pizazz.  So we added some additional choreography and we are very excited about
the lights we added on our umbrellas" 

Coach Patricia Grant of the Hillside Jr Comets readily admits that the new Core division and Sideline division are responsible for her team being at Nationals for both divisions.  "This sideline division allows us to perfect the skills we use all season as well as the skills they will probably use in high school - to lead the crowds and not worry about paying for music and all the other stuff associated with competition cheer."  Patricia and her staff credit their season success to focusing a lot on technique.  "Seems like we are always saying point your toes!"  And that is another reason this division works for them.  "But by the same token, I want them the enjoy themselves.  It's important to me that they have fun."  She describes her team as very hard working and very dedicated.  When they found out they qualified for Disney and after the shock wore off, they got to work.  "They bagged a lot of groceries."  said Coach Patricia.  "That pretty much paid for everything - a lot of groceries."  The team has not had the chance to get to the parks yet.  But they are looking forward to the party tonight and taking the opportunity tomorrow to explore the parks.  "Most of the team has never been here.  So this is very exciting for them." 

WESCON REGION SPOTLIGHTS - TUESDAY
The Temecula Valley Bears came to Florida this year in hopes of winning their 3^rd consecutive national title. With a team almost entirely made of returners they had a more than fair shot. The Bears have had the same coaching staff for both previous victories, and when asked what the biggest contribution to their advancement was they said it was the overall teamwork. The head coach, Kristen, believes that the repetition put into their practice made all the difference when it comes down their routines, along with maximizing their skill level.

The most difficult challenge they had to overcome this year was losing girls and having to change their routine. Kristen became a coach because of her family being involved in Pop Warner, but also because of its values. Pop Warner allows personal growth for the coaches and children alike. Patricia, Temecula’s VP for cheer, loves seeing the girls learning together and the way Pop Warner promotes education. Assistant coach, Jackie, began with Pop Warner because of her daughter and continues because of the incredible atmosphere. She says she loves how inclusive it is of everyone and she believes that she not only teaches the girls, but learns from them as well. When asked what advice they would give a new coach, they both had some great answers. Kristen said consistency is very important! You must always encourage the kids and put your own ego aside. Jackie, on the other hand, said as hard as it may be you must be patient because things can change so quickly and you have to roll with the punches. Also, when asked about her mentor she named her head coach Kristen saying she had taught her much patience, never to give up, and says “She’s been my rock for sure.” The coaches are proud of what they have accomplished with their girls. “I am so proud of how hard they’ve worked, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and how they’ve worked as a team.” -Kristen this team has a motto “We not Me” and it’s seemed to pay off considering they’re victory tonight taking home a 3^rd consecutive national title! Congrats ladies!

The Torrey Pines Falcons are a new team this year compiled of girls who have never cheered before. This year was a difficult one between only having 5 girls on the team and all of them having no experience. Head coach, Kristy, would have her work cut out for her to make it to nationals and place. Kristy has been coaching since 1991 and cheered herself before that. She chose Pop Warner because of the opportunity she has to teach impressionable children values and skills while they are strongly encouraged to focus on their education. Assistant coach, Lisa, is as new to cheer as her team and joined the coaching staff because her daughter is in the team. As a coach and mother of her cheerleader, she is also a huge fan of Pop Warner making education a priority. As a coach of 28 years, Kristy believes that any new coach should definitely have patience. Every year is different and you never know what is going to happen, so you must keep calm and work with what you have. As a new coach, Lisa says it always helps to have someone who knows what they’re doing to help guide you. Lisa was quick to say that Kristy was her mentor because while they have become closer she has continued to teach her more about cheer and she is impressed by her dedication to the girls. Kristy had a similar mentor, Amy (Palomar LCDC), because she continually helps her through problems she faces and they are very close. These girls, with the odds against them as a 5 person team, went on the floor and gave it their all. 

The West Covina Bulldogs came with a mix of returning and completely new cheerleaders. They are  very committed to each other and their practices. They have joint practices at an outside gym with they’re Pewee team that places first on Sunday.The team favorites their ending dance in their routine. When asked why they chose to coach for Pop Warner, the coaches agreed that the answer was simple. They do it to give back to the community and inspire the young girls. They all love how Pop Warner promotes education, structure, and their city, specifically, shows their support by helping pay the way to nationals. The coaches believe that Pop Warner has lots of opportunities for the girls. For any future coaches, the Bulldog coaching staff says the key is to take it step-by-step and appreciate the good and the bad times. Relationships are bound to form either way, so just have fun. Assistant coach, Desiree says her mom, the West Covina cheer coordinator, is her inspiration because she has coached for so long, without children on the team, to inspire the girls. Brianna, the other  assistant coach, says her inspiration is Desiree because she cares for and gives to the girls, and is always there to help her out. In order for the team to attend nationals, they did some fundraising and with the combination of donations, conference, and parents succeeded in making it. The biggest obstacle the team faced on their way to nationals was moving to a higher difficulty level with new girls on the team, but they seemed to overcome that obstacle considering their first place trophy they received. According to the Bulldogs, their success comes from the family-like bond. The teamwork and support from one another is what made this team so strong. Congratulations on placing ladies!

"This team gets along so well with each other, our biggest challenge is to get them to stop talking to each other!"  explain the coaches from A&M Redbirds with a chuckle.  "this team just really bonded from the beginning.  They are just some of the sweetest, kindest kids you will ever meet."  When asked what her key to success in coaching is, Head Coach Melanie Margolin says "Patience is key with this age. And don't expect them all to learn at the same speed.  They will all learn at different speeds. But that doesn't mean they can't all learn how to be cohesive team.  And don't be afraid to push them  they are capable of handling more than you think they are."  Her coaches also add  "just remember how young they are and how much they still want to please you.  Also listen to them - sometimes they have good ideas.  "  And their final words - be prepared for anything! The kids will tell you that their favorite part of the routine is the heel stretch stunt that they helped develop.  "They didn't like how we were having them transitioning into the stunt.  They had a better suggestion and we liked it too. So that's what we are doing.  It has become their favorite part and they are proud of their contribution to their routine."

"A bunch of sassy little kids" is how Head Coach Yana Pillotti describes the Clay Panthers Mitey Mite team. But she says it much love affection in her voice.  "They are all little mini me's " she laughs "Not sure if that is good or bad but that's what they are."  Yana credits her mentors, her mother Jen and Clay Coordinator Cheryl Berube towards helping her prepare as a coach.  Lots of questions and ideas and support were always there.  As for her secret for getting here team here?  "I pushed them like there was not tomorrow!  I just keep pushing them and pushing them."  Her one of her biggest challenges was getting the over their fear of being upside down.  "Some of them were terrified of being upside down so simple tumbling was almost impossible.  That took a lot of work."  Her other problem was separation anxiety by both the parents and the kids..  "I had to find the parent's trust in leaving their kids with me for a couple hours.  And the kids' trust in staying with me for a couple hours without their parents right there."  Yana chuckles when she remembers how nervous the team was at their first competition.  "They were absolutely terrified."  she says "But they went out there and knocked it out of the park."

Watertown Giants JV are the first team from their organization to ever make it to Nationals and they are thrilled to be here!  Head Coach Caressa Flowers admitted "It was all a little overwhelming to be honest to hear them call our name.  But our league was so helpful in answering our questions and getting us here."  This little team of 8 has been together pretty much since their Mitey Mite days and has progressed over the years to a solid Level 2.  They had tried Level 2 before, went down to Level 1 and told the coaches they wanted to be able to do "basket tosses and fun stuff."  So the coaches gave them a challenging Level 2 routine and pushed them  "Not doing the skills was not ever an option."  explained the coaches.  "We knew they could do it, they just had to try."  The team responded to the pushing.  "Our coaches wouldn't let us say no"  For their part, the team found the warm up area "a little scary-there is so much going on!"  But they got onto the warm up mats and found their groove.  And when their backstage nerves started to get them, they had a little fun backstage with Reuben from YCADA.  Just what this little team needed!

ONE STRONG CHEERLEADER
1 year ago a week before school started we noticed 3 large patches of hair missing from Avas hair, a cheerleader from Bridgeport Raritan JPW. Being a hairdresser I knew exactly what it was and what it meant for my 9 year old daughter.  After taking her to the doctor they confirmed my fears, she had alopecia and would most likely lose all her hair. For a 9 year old child this news was Devastating ! She wanted to crawl in a hole and give up everything. Especially cheer that she had been doing since she was 5 years old. After all cheerleading has the highest ponytails and the prettiest girls in a 9 year olds mind she no longer could check either box. ( she was still so beautiful). Within time she became comfortable not only in a wig that took us forever to get it to stay on during tumbling and flying but in her own skin again. She never gave up, she never let this disease take anything she loved away from her. The mat and the girls and coaches on it were her family they excepted and loved her for exactly who she was.  She no longer even wears her wig to practice , the only place out of the house she ever takes it off. Cheer life hasn't just taught her how to tumble and fly its taught her she can get through anything in life with the right people standing by her.

"The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up.” -Mark Twain The quote could not be truer for the Tamiami Colts Mitey Mite Show Cheer Team!   For this team, it starts at the top.  Coach Anaisse has been cheerleading since she was five years old.  Even being a football mom for twelve years didn’t stop the passion and heart of cheerleading.  She followed her heart back to cheerleading right into the arm of the Tamiami Colts.  Little did she know there was someone with the same spirit for cheerleading in the same area.  Coach Adi has been cheerleading for a long time.  She has been training some of the girls since they were three years old. That training leads them to Pop Warner to continue working with coach Adi. The Tamiami Colts Mitey Mite team is a group of spunky and tenacious young ladies with a love for what they do and each other.   This team consists of many spirited personalities that can make for an interesting day, but the girls will always come together as one to assure a fabulous performance. The love for cheerleading that is an exhibit by the coaches shows in their patience, caring demeanor and perseverance. Watching the girls interact with each other demonstrates the type of role models the coaches are to the team. The positivity overflows onto the parents who have been very supportive. According to coach Anaisse, the girls work and move like sisters. This type of love and passion for each other makes this team fearless!

SOUTHWEST REGION SPOTLIGHT - TUESDAY

The Holy Cross Knights Mitey Mites are from San Antonio TX. This is their very first time being here at the National Event. They are really excited about being here. While here, they haven’t visited any parks yet, but plans to real soon. The biggest challenge...coaching her granddaughter. She didn’t want to show favoritism and play grandmother at the same time. Coach Georgina has a passionate for coaching and goes above and beyond for her squad. The team raised money by plate sales and much more. Their favorite part of the routine is the three walk overs and shoulder shake at the end of the routine. When asked what advice would you give a new coach, her answer was “PASSIONATE”. They are a very strong, solid team with true friendship between them. Their team motto is “Forget The Rest, You Know Who’s Best” Good Luck Knights!!

Welcome to Disney Hoffman Estates Mitey Mite! They were able to watch their sister team perform take 5th place on Sunday, making them even more excited than they already were.  While here, the have been visiting all of the parks had having a fun time here in Disney.  They are really excited about the Pop Warner Party tonight.
This group of 14 young ladies thank their coaches for all the time they put in and spend with them.  Welcome to Florida Hoffman!

We are the Lockport Jr. Porters from Mid-America

APEX Cougar's head coach Danielle Ferenz, unfortunately could not make the trip to Florida with her team this week, but she more than prepared this team for their moment to shine.  The teams biggest challenge has been making adjustments in routines and practicing out doors. But you would never know by watching them!  They have bonded as a team and are ready to make Coach Danielle proud.  Good Luck Cougars!

For head coach of the Wilmington Eagles, Whitney Hall, this is her first time attending the National Cheer Championship.  She has been coaching 3 seasons and is a former Pop Warner cheerleader.  During their journey to Disney the toughest challenge she faced was losing 2 girls prior to the competition.  This required her to adjust routines 2 separate days and on short notice.  She recommends coaching to all "its the most rewarding thing" having girls hug you and to know you care.

The Winchester Sachems Mitey Mite team is a brand new team with all but 5 girls never having cheered before. This is a special team. At this young age, they have already formed an unbreakable bond that will carry them through their many years left with Pop Warner Cheer. Unfortunately, this team had to experience a loss of one of their own, who is unable to compete today, but is still here to support her team despite having a medical emergency just a short time ago. These girls and their Community have supported their friend and her family, and are most grateful that their teammate will be ok.

The team has been doing various things since their arrival. They have even had a Wolfgang Puck Team Dinner, but if you ask them what their absolute best experience has been so far, they will all agree that their trip to WaWa has been the highlight! They are also looking forward to visiting the parks and the Party coming up.

The Milford Eagle Junior Varsity are excited to be attending The Pop Warner National Cheer and Dance Championships. Head coach Lauren Janis has been coaching for nine years. This isn’t her first time here. She knows what to expect and how to prepare this team and f 18 girls. Once they qualified to attend, they started fundraising. They put their time into a sip and shop, shirt sponsors and               The team has been here since Saturday. They’ve  had time to spend in the parks. Space Mountain and The Rocking Rollercoaster. They say it’s been fun. Today, they are all about having their best day. They want to be clean and exciting. The coaches want them to come off the mat feeling good about their performance and enjoy the moment. 

The Chicopee Braves are thrilled you be competing for a national title at the Pop Warner Cheer and Dance Championship. Head Coach Micelle Schultzki, is amazed by the experience. It’s her first time here and she couldn’t be more excited. 

The road to nationals was a busy one. They are here with the Pee Wee team. They put a lot of effort into fundraising. The most successful were canning and a gofundme. 

Now that they are here, they have been enjoying the parks but today is about being the best that they can be. Their coaches just want them to enjoy the moment and have a clean routine. They remind the team that they have put in the work. It time to feel the excitement and have fun. Anything after that doesn’t matter.

THANK YOU YCADA 

The Northeast Vikings, from San Antonio TX, are not new to the National Championship. They know what to expect and are ready to compete. We had the pleasure of talking to the Northeast Vikings Varsity team. When asked what the favorite part of their routine is....EVERYTHING “We love our routine”. They are very excited to be here and their favorite park to visit is Hollywood Studios. This AWESOME team is head coached by Lora Amick. These girls know what they have accomplished to be here. These rock stars know how to handle their fame!! They are more than just a team-they are a family! 

For head coach Sherrell King of the Ragsdale Steelers, her team motto is "Steelers Bring the Steel". This is the Steelers first season in Pop Warner and Sherrell's  first time as a head coach. Its been a very emotional journey for her and the staff to accomplish this goal in such a short time.  She believes in giving each and every girl a chance to compete at all cost.  Unselfishly, coach King works two jobs , but you wouldn't know it because she is at every practice. Additionally the coaches believe in team bonding and treat the girls as their very own children. The Steelers biggest challenge has been finances and developing community bonds and support. But they did it!  The made it to the National Championships.  Good Luck Steelers!


Taylor Moore of the Coastal Bengals is no stranger to Pop Warner.  Starting as a cheerleader, then student demonstrator, Taylor worked her way to Head Coach where she has remained for the last 13 seasons. Several of those seasons were coaching National Championship teams, that have placed in the top five from 2009 to 2019. 

This year is like most, Taylor and their staff faced many obstacles raising the funds to help the girls and families afford the trip to Florida.  They reached their goal and are thankful for fundraiser support and community contributions.

She feels very fortunate and proud of how hard the girls have worked this season.  Including how the girls attend all practices, in spite of each girls busy school schedules and extracurricular activities. Their team motto is  "We Got This".  Go Get It Coastal!

Carla Burnett of the Odell Eagles has been a Head coach for 3 years in Charlotte North Carolina. She became involved with Pop Warner seven years ago when her daughter was just 5 years old. This is her squads first time competing at the National Cheer Championships and she and the team are beyond excited to say the least. 

Her largest coaching challenge is keeping the team continuously working together. To do so, she created a motto "One Team".

The Odell Eagles Pee Wee squad girls have been together since they were Tiny Mites. Some attend the same schools and some even attend church services together. The girls are very close which helps to call each other "Family".

Carla believes this is their year to shine at the next level. Their faith in each other as a coaching staff completes the journey to the championship today.  Welcome to the National Championships Odell!

Cheerleading passion makes the Lee County Warriors Varsity team fearless! Coach Deneedra is no stranger to Pop Warner. She started volunteering in Hawaii, then Texas, and now Georgia. According to Deneedra, “Pop Warner is the best organization she has ever been a part of!” This team is returning to Nationals after winning 4th place in 2018 determined to be #1. Keeping the girls motivated is the most important for the coaching staff.  It shows when watching this team perform. The team motto is, “Who’s got your back!”  I was able to see just how far the team will go to have each other’s back. During warm-up, one of the girls was having a hard time.  The team sprang into action to assist her They immediately surrounded her, repeating encouraging words filled with motivation and love. The Lee County Warriors Varsity team said, "Returning to Nationals can be attributed to the team’s dedication, hard work, and passion for cheerleading."  The girls think the best parts of the routine are the stunts, tumbling, and the dance.   The best advice Coach Deneedra could provide to new coaches is to have great time management skills, be patient, have fun and don’t give up. The team was supported by the community through funding to attend Nationals and their spirit. I guess for this team the saying is true that “Teamwork makes the dream work!” Go, Warriors!

They say a successful cheerleading team beats to one heart! That could not be truer for the North Pinellas Panthers Junior Varsity Show Cheer Team. This cheer squad is a true family unit. These girls have moved through divisions together as a unit. As girls age out of Pop Warner, they seem to come back as junior coaches to continue the success of the program. 2019 will be the Panther's fifth year performing at Nationals. According to Coach Jess, the team is extremely excited to be here. The Panthers have overcome multiple injuries this season, which may normally be impossible to come back from. But not for this team. The other teammates put it all back together again and made it to Disney. Coach Laurie could not be prouder of this team. While discussing the girl’s perseverance during the season, the coaches' eyes began to well up with tears. The show of emotion and support is inspirational. While in the holding room, coach Laurie took the time to read all the motivational statements on the wall.  She would then express what they mean to her and the team. The Panther's community is the foundation, as well as moral and financial support. We all know that family is everything, and this family’s love is genuine!

The New Fairfield Falcons have been together since Tiny Mite Level. These girls have grown together over the years, and formed an unbreakable bond. They are a strong, solid team with true friendships between them. They have each other's backs without question, through thick and thin. This year, they have added one new member whom they have welcomed with open arms. This team has been to Nationals previously, with their most recent visit being last year. They are confident that they will do what it takes to bring home the trophy.

So far the team has enjoyed a few Parks, and they had their Annual team dinner at Medieval Times. They enjoyed the show, and were ecstatic that their Knight won the tournament. 

Their Fundraising efforts to get to Disney were vast. The most popular and bountiful fundraiser has been their $10k raffle. They were able to secure their funds that they needed to get their team here with this fundraiser.

When asked what the favorite part of the routine was, the Coach said that their dance was the most popular. They are doing a Grease theme this year and are very enthusiastic about it.

The Merrimack Hawks are in their 2nd year as a team. The fact they have been to Nationals in both Seasons, is nothing short of amazing. In order to get down here, they sold "a ton of Krispy Kreme donuts!" That seems to be an excellent fundraiser for them. 

The Jackie Robinson Bears are attending Nationals for the very first time!!  Standing in the middle of the noisy warm up area, I asked them if all this was a little intimidating.  Trying to put on a brave front, they did have to admit it was a lot to take in.

Fallsburg Comet Varsity PW2 cheer team is hoping to give their teammate Aubrey a memorable 16th birthday gift today with an outstanding performance today!  

The Fallsburg association brings together 4 different school districts under their umbrella.  "Someday they might be at rival schools," explain the coaches.  "But today they are family."

The members of the Colonies Raiders JV team are no strangers to Nationals.  A good part of the team has been together since their first trip down to Disney as Mitey Mites.  The coaches admit that taking this team from Level 2 to Level 3 has been one of their biggest challenges.  "When your flyers are used to hitting body positions with someone always on their leg, then to go extended and have to hit those same body positions and stay up in the air all by yourself-that's a challenge!" explain the coaches.  The other challenge was to balance the other things in their lives while still making time to master this new level.  "They are kids who should still be able to have other things in their lives."

The coaches have all been through the Pop Warner organization together and are now bringing their love of cheerleading back to the program.  Their advice to new coaches?  "Be prepared for anything-anything will happen."  And most importantly "Always put the kids first - above anything else, including you."

Association President Martha Vadney has fought hard for Pop Warner in her community and here's why. "I love rules.  Oh sometimes they seem silly or unnecessary.  But they always exist in Pop Warner for the kids.  Other program may have uncertified coaches, have no boundaries.  But the rules aren't here because they protect the kids.  It's for the protection of your kids."

The Bolingbrook Trojans are very excited to be here in Florida! This is the perfect end to a great season. Although there was a little turbulence after qualifying at the regional event when two girls were unable to travel with the team and the entire routine needed to be reworked, they have over come and grown stronger as a team.  Their favorite part of the routine...why the pyramid of course.