Christian Cheerleading Boasts Different Kind of “Spirit”
Generally speaking, cheerleading in America is not what it used to be. Questionable dance moves, bare midriffs, cut-throat competition, and trash-talk toward the other team are becoming the cultural norm. Fortunately, there is an alternative: Christian cheerleading. In this world of cheers, "spirit" means the theme is wholesome and the talents and skills of the competitors are recognized as being from God. For many schools, the focus is on self promotion and the “spirit” is completely focused on the accomplishments of the team and individual athletes. At MPCS, the cheer program has a solid focus of investing in the lives of these young ladies for God’s eternal purposes.
Building a Christ-Centered Cheer Program
Mount Paran Christian School is proud of its cheerleading program, as are most schools. The 54 girls who make up the four high school and middle school squads are on the front lines expressing their faith through what they do, and also by their Christian character. These students perform impressive routines involving highly skilled gymnastics, difficult aerial acrobatics, competitive stunts, and off-the-chart energy — all while promoting school spirit with integrity and excellence. We are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication of our 2016 private class A State Championship cheer squad who has brought home their fifth consecutive State title. More importantly, we are beyond blessed knowing that we have invested in the lives of young women who are seeking God and long to serve Him.
In order to build this type of positive cheer culture, coaches must clearly define the purpose of the program and expectations for their athletes. Coaches should enlist the support of parents to partner with the school to enhance the community. Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) has a competitor's creed that is the cornerstone of the MPCS cheer program. The emphasis is on acknowledging that one’s talents, abilities, and sacrifices are all for the praise of our Heavenly Father. Prior to every competition, our cheerleaders take time to have a devotion, pray, and recite this creed. By doing this, the team is able to work through injuries, setbacks, and team dynamics by focusing on God’s purpose for each team member. In the heat of a highly competitive season, this cornerstone of knowing your confidence lies in Christ is essential to any form of success. Click here to view the FCA creed.
Christian Spirit Instills Perspective
The Spirit Challenge
In the increasingly competitive sport of cheerleading, it is essential that schools intentionally teach and instill true spirit; the purpose of which is to reach others for the glory of God. We would like to challenge other schools, public and private, non-denominational, secular, Catholic, and all walks of faith, to also lead in this effort to put the "spirit" back in cheerleading across America. This can start with the coaches, volunteers, or young athletes, but it takes all working together to ensure this wonderful sport continues to be positive and uplifting. This method can surely showcase the talents and skills these young ladies are capable of, with excellence that only comes from the "spirit." We welcome other school cheer programs to contact us to continue the discussion of how we join together to showcase the incredible talent of these athletes and impact our communities for the greater good.
Tawanna Rusk is the Assistant Headmaster and High School Head of Mount Paran Christian School and former varsity cheer coach.
To learn more about the Christian cheer program at MPCS as well as other Christ-centered sports that are offered, click here.
WingTips
Welcome to WingTips, a Mount Paran Christian School Blog. The MPCS Blog features many independent school contributors and thought-leaders.
Subscribe Here!
Recent Posts
Learn More About MPCS
Recommended Series
PRIVATE SCHOOL PRIMER:
- How School Choice Programs Increase Educational Opportunities for Families
- 5 Tips for Making the Middle to High School Transition
- What Families Should Expect
- 2 Most Important This to Consider When Choosing a Preschool
- 4 Benefits of Choosing a K-12 School for Life
- 3 Reasons Why I Believe in Christian Schools
- 7 Tips for Affording a Private School Education
- 4 Reasons We Chose Mount Paran Christian School
- How to Choose the Best Private School for Your Family
PARENTEd. TALKS:
- Helping Students Boost Their Brain Capacity for Success
- Teaching Children Fiscal Responsibility
- Tips for Parents to Help Teens Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
- Excelling in the Midst of Adversity
- 3 Tips for Navigating the Hidden Dangers of Social Media
- The Blessing of a B Minus
- Real Talk for Moms
COLLEGE SERIES:
- Finding the Right Fit - An Individualized Approach to College Counseling
- ParentEd.: Here’s What You Need to Know About College Admissions
- To Save or Not to Save: 529 Plans are the Question
FROM THE TEACHER’S DESK:
- The Importance of Play
- What Families Should Expect
- Play is Learning Through the Arts
- 4 Tips to Capture the Minds of Your Students
CHRISTIAN LIFE:
- What is a Covenant School?
- Seeing Through a New Lens: A Biblical Worldview
- Faith and Intellect as One
- Philosophy of Belonging: 4 Tips for Fostering a Diverse Culture
- Innovation in Education: Teaching Cultural Awareness
- A Call to Brotherhood: Martin Luther King Jr.’s Wisdom for Today
- CommUNITY: How Do We Love One Another?
- Campaign for CommUNITY
- How to Raise Empathetic Children in Today’s Culture
- Imageo Dei: Why Diversity Matters
Providing academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment, Mount Paran Christian School unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth.