👀 Competition Anecdotes: Our Most Memorable Cheerleading Stories! (S1.12 Parts 1 and 2)
- janie724
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
Episode of April 2, 2024
Cheerleading competitions are more than just performances on the mat: they are also full of unexpected, funny, or memorable moments that leave lasting memories for athletes, coaches, and organizers. In this two-part episode of the Kick’s Cheer Podcast, the team revisits some memorable anecdotes that have marked their years on the competition scene. Here are a few that will surely make you smile (or remind you of a moment you experienced too!).
Our fire alarm anecdotes during competitions 🔥
Who would have thought that fire alarms would become almost an unofficial tradition at some competitions? One of the most striking anecdotes told is about an alarm triggered during an awards ceremony... at a Harry Potter-themed event, in front of more than 2,000 spectators. No one moved. Literally. Everyone was waiting for the results, even though the alarm was ringing throughout the room. Fortunately, it was a false alarm caused by a child... and the firefighters decided we didn't need to evacuate.
But it wasn't an isolated case! During the ICU World Championships, three evacuations took place in a single day due to false alarms, causing delays of over two hours. Despite the irritation at the time, it has now become a story that makes everyone laugh. Especially Nadia, who was present on that famous day.
🎶 When the music stops in the middle of the routine
Another technical anecdote involves a music cut in the middle of a routine. Imagine: the team is in full motion, the pace is picking up, and suddenly, nothing. Without the music, it takes a real sense of rhythm and a lot of composure not to get thrown off. Once, this interruption even coincided with a partial blackout of the lights (this is not a Kick's comp, we want to mention that :D), which added an extra dose of stress but also a great moment of teamwork on the mat. This kind of experience reminds us that, despite preparation, we must always be ready to handle the unexpected.
The last-minute athlete change at the World Championship 🌎
A particularly amusing anecdote for Janie and Van involves a last-minute athlete change during a world championship in 2017 for the world team they were coaching. A vaulter got injured during warm-up, and they had to quickly find a replacement. It's never easy, especially at this level. Looking at all the options, Janie had a flash... "It's a good thing we have a flyer on the coaching staff." That's how, at 33, Van ended up as the centre base flyer after a few years of retirement.
The fan zone was on fire just to see Van perform! A moment etched in the memory of many!
🤕 The body says stop: exhaustion during an award ceremony.
In a more human moment, Keaven recounts how, during his first full weekend as the main host, he pushed his body beyond its limits. Headache, exhaustion, dehydration... and a spectacular ending: he violently vomited just before announcing the results. A memorable moment, which he laughs about today with the team, but which also serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of oneself during the intensity of a competition weekend.
In summary
These anecdotes illustrate well that, behind the competition, there are always little unique moments that make you smile, strengthen bonds, and make cheerleading so special. Whether it's the technical challenges, the unexpected events on the mat, or the fervour of the fans, these experiences are an integral part of an athlete's life and that of their loved ones.
We hope you enjoyed these stories and that they inspire you to share yours! Because that's also the cheer spirit: a beautiful community that grows together, with its ups and downs, but always with a lot of passion.
And you, what is your favourite competition anecdote?
Don't hesitate to share it in the comments!
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