Blog

Hey parents and cheer fam—Coach Haylie here, and I want to talk about something that’s been weighing heavy on my heart after placements. After sending placement emails, I had a few parents messaging me about the teams. This is normal and happens every year. But what I couldn't shake was two conversations I had where the parents were SOOO stoked that their athlete went up an age level (even though that isn't their age)..... It kind of shocked me. I couldn't understand why we were so excited for athletes to be in the wrong age divisions, but then I realized it is just a lack of knowledge and training on our (the coaches) part. I know how exciting it is to see your athlete grow, hit new skills, and move up through the levels. That next team, that harder stunt, that “bigger” opportunity feels like the natural next step. But here’s the truth most people don’t want to talk about: Leveling up too soon can actually hold your athlete back. 1. Leveling Up in SKILL Doesn’t Always Mean They’re Ready Just because your athlete threw a tuck in practice doesn’t mean they’re ready to be on a Level 3 team. When athletes move up too quickly, their skills often don’t match the full demands of the new scoresheet. That means: They may not be choreographed into all sections of the routine. They could feel overwhelmed and frustrated trying to “catch up” all season. Their teammates might feel frustrated, too, if the team keeps losing technique or difficulty points. And what’s worse? That pressure can suck the joy right out of the sport. Your athlete might be working their booty off just to place last, and feel the stress of “never being enough.” Let’s stop pushing so hard for the next level, and instead build strong, confident athletes right where they are. 2. Leveling Up by AGE Isn’t Always in Their Best Interest Now let’s talk about age divisions. I get it—your mini is super talented, and that youth team looks so fun and exciting. But pushing younger athletes onto older teams too soon? That’s like trying to make them grow up overnight. And I say this with love: Why are we in such a rush? At our small gym, we sometimes have to combine age groups, but we wish we didn’t have to. Here’s why it matters: Younger athletes often aren’t emotionally or socially ready for that jump. They can get lost in the mix or discouraged by the comparison. Your youth-aged athlete might end up on a junior team—but competing against full junior teams from bigger gyms… And guess what? That’s hard—on them and us. When you want your kid to move up just to say they’re on an older team, it’s not always the “win” it looks like on social media. Sometimes it’s a fast track to burnout, frustration, or injury. Trust the Process Here’s what I want every parent and athlete to hear loud and clear: Staying at the level where your athlete can THRIVE is the win. When we focus on clean technique, growing confidence, strong performance, and loving the process, that’s when they shine. That’s when they stay in the sport long enough to reach those higher levels for real—stronger, safer, and more confident than ever. That’s when cheer stays fun. So let them be where they are. Let them build. Let them enjoy it. Because cheerleading should be something they LOVE, not something they’re pressured to perform in. — From one coach who loves her athletes like her own, Coach Haylie

Let’s be real—not making the team you had your heart set on hurts. Whether you were dreaming of moving up a level, joining the elite squad, being on the same team as one of your friends, or being in a different position on the mat, rejection can feel like a punch to the gut. But let us remind you of something powerful: This is NOT the end of your story—it might just be the beginning of your strength.✨ At Unlimited Athletics, we believe every athlete’s journey is one-of-a-kind, and sometimes the detours are what build the strongest, fiercest, most unstoppable athletes. 💪 If you (or your athlete) didn’t make the team you were hoping for, here’s what to do next: 1. Feel It—Then Refocus 💭➡️🎯 It’s totally okay to feel disappointed. You’re human. Cry it out, talk to someone, journal, eat some ice cream 🍦—whatever helps you process. But don’t stay stuck in that space. When you’re ready, shift your mindset from “Why me?” to “Watch me.” 👀🔥 2. Get Feedback and Level Up 📈 If you can, ask your coach what you can improve. Whether it’s tumbling, flexibility, or showmanship, feedback is a gift 🎁. And guess what? Asking for it shows maturity AND drive. You’re not done—you’re just getting started. 👊 3. Commit to the Climb 🧗‍♀️💪 This is your training montage moment. 🎬 Use this season to get stronger, sharper, and more confident. Show up. Put in the work. Stay consistent. The best athletes are made in moments like this. You've got that fire—now use it🔥 4. Embrace Your Role 🌟 Even if it’s not the team you wanted, the team you’re on NEEDS YOU. Be the leader, the encourager, the energy everyone wants around. The role doesn’t define the athlete—the heart behind it does. 💜 So show up BIG no matter the team name. 5. Surround Yourself with Good Vibes Only ✨🙌 Steer clear of the drama, comparison, and self-doubt. Instead, plug into your hype squad—your family, your teammates, your coaches, your crew at Unlimited. Speak life over yourself and others. Confidence isn’t just a look—it’s a mindset. 💫 6. Trust the Bigger Picture 🌈🛤️ A “no” today could be your “YES” tomorrow. Don’t count yourself out. So many athletes we’ve seen at Unlimited started with a setback—and went on to SHINE. 💎 Stay patient, stay positive, and know that your time is coming. 💥 Final Hype Talk 💥 We know it stings right now, but listen up: 💥 You’re still an athlete. 💥 You’re still powerful. 💥 Your placement does NOT define your potential. So chin up, bow high, and smile big. 😄✨ We see you. We believe in you. And your BEST is still ahead. 💜