Unpopular opinion?!

So, people do wonder, and ask me how I feel when an athlete leaves. I feel many ways. I am sad we are losing an amazing personality who brought so much to our team (as they all do). I sometimes feel relieved about a decision being taken for us that we didn't have to make if the commitment wasn't there. I feel frustrated if we are in the run up to a competition and it's going to affect the other athletes on the team, (really, could you not have decided earlier?!)

Mostly though, I feel ok about it. I know this is controversial to say, but everyone is replaceable. Let that sink in for a moment...

Not in the "Abby Lee Miller" way of thinking, in the thought that if we aren't the right fit for a child as a team, or as a sport, then that's ok!

There IS a line of children who dream of that coveted Competition Team spot. There is an athlete who will bring as much if not more to the program than their predecessor. There isn't a pressure to stay if it doesn't fit for you or your family.

All we want for our athletes is to thrive in our environment. We cherish every one of the children who walk through our doors in any capacity. If you can only commit to a once a week recreational class, that's ok! If you are all in and want to attend every event or masterclass we hold to satiate your appetite for learning the art of cheerleading, that's amazing!

We will meet you where you are. You do not have to be at every session to get our attention, you just have to be clear with your intentions. If we know you are working towards a skill, we will be there, giving you homework, helping you with it in class, encouraging you all the way. If we know that our rec class is your time to relax and feel happy, we're there for that too.

So no, we don't feel mad when an athlete leaves us, we wish them the best in wherever their passion takes them. One thing we will always tell our athletes is something the most prolific coach I have ever known said to my daughter, "Once a Phoenix Lady, always a Phoenix Lady".

The reason our team is named as such is because of the profuse effect one young coach had on my daughter's life. As many of you will know, Alyssa spent her formative years at Panache Cheer & Dance. The positive influence this program had on her life was immeasurable, in particular the coach of her Allstar Pom Team PHOENIX.

Although very young, this superstar was wise beyond her years when it came to all things cheerleading and dance. She has an insane repertoire and an even bigger list of achievements. She did and still does bring light, passion and knowledge to the sport we all love. She is the coach of a lifetime and has taught not only my daughter but me too so much.

Obviously, lives change, circumstances change, people adjust their goals and priorities. That is OK! There will always be another cheerleader salivating at the thought of getting that comp team place. There will always be another mum willing to drive her child to the moon if they thought it would help them achieve their goals! And there will always be every Phoenix Cheerleaders past or present, LEGACY.

The Legacy Lives in us all.