This year’s cheerleaders have worked extremely hard. They are an amazing bunch of kids. Both squads performances at the regional competition were two of the best my squads have ever done. I was very proud of them.

One thing unique about year’s cheerleaders is that they come from all different backgrounds but they have come together as one big family.

I recently had one cheerleader tell me how they may not like each other all the time and sometimes fight like brothers and sisters but they love each other and would do anything for one another.

As a coach, I feel that is what you strive for that you can take a bunch different kids and have them work hard toward a common goal and achieve it.

That goal may not always be winning but that you all work together and become the best you can be. I feel that is success.

I know this year’s squads have achieved that just like many of my squads have over the last 30 years.

It doesn’t seem like I’ve coached 30 years. I have many special memories and have had many cheerleaders that have touched my life.

Many of the cheerleaders I have coached are some of my dearest friends now. I hope that throughout the years, I have helped them in some way become a better person and that they know all things are possible through Christ that strengthens us which has been the Russell County Cheerleaders’ Bible verse for many years.

To this group of seniors that are so special, I want to thank them for all their hard work and hope they have many great memories. I love you all.

I want to thank all the parents who have done so much especially this year’s senior parents who have been with me so long, some even as cheerleaders.

Also, thanks to Rita Branscum, the high school administration, school board, and our community for helping allow our cheer program be a successful program.

It’s been a great ride.