DALLAS, TEXAS-JUNE 26, 2000 – In a society heavily defined by the media’s distorted standards of perfection, there is little room for the reality of individual uniqueness. Cheerleading isn’t immune to those impressions.  But for the New Waverly High School cheerleaders from Point Blank, Texas, a week at National Cheerleaders Association [NCA] Cheer Camp at Sam Houston State University helped shift their perception of those ideals. ”The instructors were so far from the stereotypical ‘Barbie Doll’ image that it helped the girls see that you can be tall, muscular, short, small, thin, long hair, short hair and be GREAT,” said Coach Nena Sledge. “These six instructors had a more positive influence on my squad than anything else ever has.”

A success for NCA, but certainly not a surprise.   Our goal is not only to teach technical skills, but to improve self confidence and leadership skills in young people,” said VP National Spirit Group [NSG] Marketing Karen Halterman.

Every year, NCA staffing directors spend numerous hours shuffling through some 1,000 videotape applications from across the country looking for select instructor candidates. Out of those, some 300 will make it as an NCA Instructor adding to a returning staff of about 700.   “Certainly we look at top scores on technical skills and healthy, fit leaders that present themselves well,” says NE Regional Staffing Director Heidi McKithan.  “But if you don’t have a great personality that really shines, it doesn’t matter how talented you are.  They have to be able to make a difference in someone else’s life.”

For the instructors it’s the difference between being real or being perfect.  As Halterman explains, real connects; perfection eludes.    “The world is full of different sizes and colors, and it is imperative that we project a staff image that is physically fit, while possessing a variety of features young people see in their own mirrors.”

As evidenced by the renewed spirit of the New Waverly High School Cheerleaders and the gratefulness of their coach, the NCA instructors at this camp were a true reflection of authenticity so rarely embraced by humanity.  "Thank you NCA for making my squad realize that no matter your shape, size, or color—it’s all about being healthy, energetic, enthusiastic and full of spirit,” said Coach Sledge in closing.

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