Fierce Hits the Red Carpet at EPIC Lansing
February 26, 2026 Fierce Hits the Red Carpet at EPIC Lansing Fierce Cheer took the stage at EPIC in Lansing this weekend, the first time this Royal Events competition has been held in Michigan and the energy did not disappoint. With a Hollywood theme and a red carpet entrance for every athlete, the atmosphere felt big from the start. What stood out most wasn’t the lights, it was the growth. All three teams delivered their strongest performances of the season. Revolution stepped onto the floor sharper and more confident than ever. Vengeance attacked a highly competitive division with power and composure. And Karma set a goal to reach a 95 and achieved it, finishing just one point shy of Level Champion. That kind of progress reflects months of focus and commitment. EPIC wasn’t just another competition. It was proof of how far these athletes have come and a reminder that this season is still building and the work isn’t slowing down. The Fierce girls are back in the gym over the next few weeks, refining details and elevating their routines as they prepare for their next competition at Huntington Place in Downtown Detroit on March 28 & 29. Revolution, Vengeance, and Karma will take the floor alongside our Intro to All-Star program, Envy, who will be competing both days. Detroit, we’re coming.
Season 3 Showcase & First Competition Weekend Recap
January 19, 2026 Fierce Cheer Celebrates Season 3 Showcase & First Competition Weekend in Michigan Fierce Cheer, a competitive all-star cheerleading gym based in Roseville, Michigan, kicked off Season 3 with their annual showcase followed by the first competition weekend of the season. From strong performances to major score improvements, this weekend highlighted the growth, confidence, and dedication of our athletes and families. Season 3 ShowcaseThe showcase was such a special night and a true celebration of how far the Fierce teams have come. Every single athlete showed up with confidence, focus, and heart. A huge thank-you to the Edmonds family for the beautiful flowers, such a thoughtful touch that made the night even more special. Team and individual pictures were a big hit, and it was incredible to see athletes shining both individually and together as teams. UCE – Day 1Day one brought some nerves, which is completely expected at the start of the season, but the Fierce girls pushed through and performed with determination and grit. Revolution took 3rd place Vengeance took 4th place Karma took 1st place Strong performances across the board and a solid foundation to build on moving into day two. The Crown – Day 2Day two was all about growth. Nerves settled, confidence increased, and it showed on the mat. Revolution hit zero, increased their score by 0.2 points, and earned 3rd place Vengeance hit zero, increased their score by an impressive 0.64 points, and took 4th place, finishing only 0.8 points away from first. Even more exciting, they came within 0.34 points of surpassing their team’s highest-ever score! Karma had a massive score jump of 3.5 points, earning 1st place with the highest team score in Fierce Cheer history! Thank You, Fierce FamilyTo our athletes: Thank you for trusting the process and showing up ready to work.To our coaches: Thank you for your dedication, leadership, and belief in these athletes.To our parents and families: Thank you for your support, encouragement, and commitment to this journey. What’s NextWe’re taking everything we learned this weekend and heading right back to work as we prepare for our next competition on January 24 in Lansing. The momentum is strong, and we’re excited to continue building, growing, and pushing forward together.
How Cheer Prepares Athletes for a Successful Career
September 9, 2025 How Cheer Prepares Athletes for a Successful Career When most people think of cheerleading, they picture tumbling passes, stunts, and competition routines. While those skills are certainly part of the sport, they are only a fraction of what cheerleading really gives an athlete. For me, cheer has never been about hitting a stunt or performing on stage, it serves as a space to learn confidence, resilience, and leadership. Those lessons I learned throughout my time as a cheerleader have shaped my entire career and are why I believe so strongly in making cheer accessible for today’s athletes. Cheer taught me confidence in a way nothing else could. Standing in front of a crowd, leading teammates, and performing under pressure taught me that mistakes are part of the process and what matters is how you respond. That confidence carried me into a fast-paced career in the legal tech industry, where I now serve as a Customer Experience Manager. In my role, I act as the personification of our technology solutions — the face and voice behind product decisions, strategy, and customer advocacy. Representing an entire company requires presence, poise, and clarity, and I know those skills were rooted in my days in the gym and on the sidelines. Research backs this up. Studies show that athletes who participate in team sports are more likely to develop strong leadership skills, confidence in public speaking, and the ability to perform under pressure, traits that directly translate into career success (Frontiers in Psychology, Verywell Mind). Cheerleading, in particular, requires athletes to be adaptable. When a stunt falls or a routine doesn’t go as planned, you regroup, reset, and try again. That resilience has shaped how I approach challenges in business and life: setbacks aren’t failures, they’re learning experiences and another step towards success. I also learned adaptability through cheer. Every routine, every season, and every team dynamic is different. Learning to adjust quickly, to step into a new role, take on unexpected responsibility, or support a teammate, has taught me to be flexible in ways that are invaluable in corporate life. Today, when product priorities shift or unexpected challenges arise at work, I lean on the same mindset I learned as a teenager in the gym: stay calm, stay focused, and figure it out together. Now, as the owner of Fierce Cheer, I get to pass those lessons on to the next generation. My hope is that every athlete who walks through our doors leaves not only with sharper skills but also with the confidence to be themselves, the resilience to fail forward, and the belief that they can achieve anything if they’re willing to put in the effort. That’s why I emphasize affordability and access. These lessons shouldn’t only belong to families who can afford steep costs. Every child deserves the chance to discover what they’re capable of, and cheer is one of the best places to learn it. Cheerleading is so much more than a sport. It’s a training ground for life. Building the next generation of leaders, communicators, and resilient young people who are prepared to take on whatever comes next. I’m living proof of that, and through Fierce, I’m proud to give today’s athletes the same foundation that has carried me through every stage of my journey.
How Rising Costs Are Pricing Families Out of All-Star Cheer and What We’re Doing About It
August 10, 2025 How Rising Costs Are Pricing Families Out of All-Star Cheer and What We’re Doing About It Cheerleading has always been more than just flashy routines. It’s a sport that fosters discipline, leadership, confidence, and camaraderie. Yet, for many families, the rising cost of youth sports has made cheer increasingly inaccessible. Nationwide, the average household spent $1,016 in 2024 on a child’s primary sport, a 46% increase since 2019, adjusting for inflation and expanded offerings. Even after accounting for secondary sports, that number balloons nearly to $1,500 annually. In the cheerleading world, tuition alone typically runs between $100 and $250 per month, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Families must also budget for uniforms, warm-ups, choreography, competition fees, music rights, and training add-ons like tumbling clinics and private lessons. When combined with travel and lodging for competitions, a single cheer season can cost families upwards of $3,500 to $5,000 or more. Not all families can afford this investment. Children from low-income households (under $25,000 annually) participate in organized sports at a rate more than 5 times lower than those from higher-income families. Racial disparities persist as well; Black and Hispanic youth are significantly underrepresented in sports compared to White youth, a gap linked to systemic inequities like scarce facilities, fewer local programs, and under-resourced schools. The commercialization of youth sports, including cheer, often mirrors exclusive private clubs. These programs may offer intensive competition but at the cost of inclusivity and affordability, with much coaching and credential information locked behind branding rather than transparency. Families may find themselves locked into a pay-to-play model without clarity or checks on coaching quality. Yet, the evidence in favor of sports participation is compelling. Team sports like cheer enhance mental well-being, reducing anxiety and isolation, and promoting social skills essential for lifelong resilience and leadership. But these benefits, too, are reserved for those whose families can afford the growing price of entry. At Fierce Cheer, we refuse to accept this status quo. We prioritize transparency and equity in everything we do. Our tuition model is straightforward, with no hidden fees. Our families always know what they’re paying from the start. We’ve reduced uniform and practice wear costs by sourcing directly from manufacturers, avoiding steep markups that can cost families hundreds more elsewhere. Optional extras like backpacks and apparel are just that, optional. Our competition schedule is designed to minimize travel costs by focusing on local venues, with only one national event offered per season. We believe the life-changing benefits of cheer including confidence, teamwork, resilience, and joy, should not be a luxury reserved for the few. At Fierce Cheer, we’re building a program grounded in affordability, accessibility, and athlete-first values because every child, regardless of their zip code, should have the chance to discover what it means to be fierce. References Average sports spending and increase since 2019 Secondary sports costs Tuition and overall season costs Participation disparities by income Racial/ethnic participation disparities Commercialization and inequity in youth sports
How to Choose the Right Cheer Program for Your Child
June 5, 2025 How to Choose the Right Cheer Program for Your Child Cheerleading builds confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships—but for first-time parents, choosing the right program can feel overwhelming. From school-based cheer to all-star programs, here’s what to consider when deciding what’s best for your child. Types of Cheerleading ProgramsNot all cheer programs are the same. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types: Sideline CheerTypically run through schools, sideline cheer supports athletic teams at games with chants and crowd involvement. These programs are often seasonal and focused on school spirit. Recreational (Rec) CheerRec cheer is usually community-based and great for beginners. These programs are lower-pressure and may include light performance or exhibition opportunities. All-Star CheerThis is a year-round, competitive cheerleading sport focused on athletic performance. Teams are grouped by age and skill level and compete at local or national events. Routines include stunts, tumbling, jumps, and dance. What to Look for in a Cheer Program Strong Values & Athlete DevelopmentPrograms that prioritize self-confidence, teamwork, and character development provide lasting benefits that go far beyond the mat. Qualified, Safety-Focused CoachesMake sure coaches are CPR/first aid certified, background-checked, and trained in current safety techniques. Great coaching isn’t just about skills—it’s about mentorship. Open Communication & Positive CultureLook for a program where athletes feel supported and families are kept informed. A strong, inclusive team culture helps athletes thrive. Transparent, Affordable PricingCheer can be costly, so clarity around tuition, competition fees, and uniforms is key. Some programs, like Fierce Cheer, offer flat-rate monthly pricing to help families plan ahead. Manageable Travel & Time CommitmentAsk how many practices and competitions you can expect—and how far you’ll need to travel. Fierce Cheer’s schedule includes mostly local competitions (within 2 hours), plus one national event for prep teams. Choosing the Right FitThe “right” program isn’t always the biggest or most decorated. It’s the one where your child feels safe, challenged, and celebrated. Whether your child is just starting out or ready to level up, the best programs help athletes grow inside and out. Is Fierce Cheer Right for You?At Fierce Cheer, we combine top-notch training with a fun, inclusive environment where athletes can be themselves and shine. Our experienced coaches, cost-effective pricing, and focus on community make us a standout choice for families who want more than just a season—they want a journey. Interested in joining the Fierce Family? Call us at 586-209-4727 or email us at ashley@fierce-cheer.com for more info.
Fierce Cheer Shines at Royal Weekend: First-Place Wins & Karma’s Level Championship!
April 3, 2025 Fierce Cheer Shines at Royal Weekend: First-Place Wins & Karma’s Level Championship! What an incredible weekend it was for Fierce Cheer at Royal Weekend in Battle Creek, MI! Hosted by Royal Events on March 29 and March 30, this competition was filled with excitement, energy, and unforgettable moments. All three of our teams—Revolution, Vengeance, and Karma—performed with poise and precision, each taking first place both days!But the excitement didn’t stop there. Karma won Level Champion on the second day, recognizing them as the highest-scoring prep team at the competition. This win reflects the incredible dedication and growth the team has shown this season!We’re beyond proud of all of our athletes for their incredible accomplishments at Royal Weekend. Their dedication, teamwork, and growth are truly inspiring, and this victory builds strong momentum as we head into the rest of the season. Thank you to all of the families, friends, and supporters who cheered us on this weekend. We can’t wait to see what’s next for Revolution, Vengeance, and Karma! Highlights from Our Teams RevolutionRevolution brought the energy like no other! Their routine was high-octane and filled with power. They hit a zero-deduction performance both days, showcasing their precision and timing. The team made great strides from day 1 to day 2, improving their synchronization and really tightening up their routine. We’re so proud of them for bringing their best to the mat! VengeanceVengeance hit a zero-deduction performance both days as well, and we’re especially proud of them for overcoming a challenge. On day 2, an athlete from Karma stepped in last minute after a member of the Vengeance team left sick, and they didn’t miss a beat! The team’s clean performance and adaptability earned them significant score improvements, even with the substitution. Talk about a true team effort! KarmaKarma stepped it up this weekend, bringing the most energy they’ve shown all season. Their routine was not only zero-deduction but also included increased difficulty in stunts, which was a huge achievement. And then, they were announced as Level Champion on the second day—an honor given to the highest-scoring prep team! This win is a testament to their hard work and growing excellence. Their performance earned them a bid to Prep and Rec Grand Nationals—what a way to set the stage for the rest of the season! Team Spirit & SportsmanshipOne of the standout moments wasn’t just the wins but the sportsmanship displayed throughout the weekend. After a long day, our younger athletes were a bit tired, but the older girls made sure to encourage them to continue celebrating other teams. It’s wonderful to see our athletes carry the spirit of good sportsmanship, especially when our older athletes naturally lead by example.Saturday night, the girls had some fun with a pool and pin party at the hotel, followed by a friendly Uno competition (with Coach Ashley emerging as the winner on the first round!). These team bonding moments are what make these competitions even more memorable. Next Up: Lansing and Grand Nationals!The hard work doesn’t stop here! All teams will be heading to Lansing on April 12 for their next competition, but the biggest events are on the horizon: Vengeance and Karma will compete at Prep and Rec Grand Nationals in April 26-27. We couldn’t be more excited to see how these teams continue to shine on the national stage.
Top Training Techniques for All-Star Cheerleading Success
November 11, 2024 Top Training Techniques for All-Star Cheerleading Success Every all-star cheerleader needs a strong foundation in training to master those exciting stunts, routines, and skills that make cheerleading so thrilling. At Fierce Cheer, we take a holistic approach to training, covering physical strength, mental resilience, and safety. Here, we break down our top training techniques to help every cheerleader succeed. 1. Strength and Flexibility Exercises: Building the Body of a CheerleaderCheerleading is physically demanding, requiring strength, flexibility, and balance. Here are a few exercises we recommend for building the strength and agility to perform safely and confidently. Core Stability: Core exercises are the foundation for every stunt. Try planks, Russian twists, and leg raises to build stability in your midsection. Lower Body Power: Strong legs make for higher jumps and safer landings. Squats, lunges, and calf raises build power, while stretching exercises increase flexibility and help prevent injuries. Shoulder and Arm Strength: Stunts and tumbling require strength in the upper body, particularly shoulders and arms. Push-ups, shoulder presses, and resistance band exercises are excellent for targeting these muscles. 2. Mental Conditioning Techniques: Training the Mind for SuccessPhysical strength is only part of the equation—cheerleaders need mental strength too. Mental conditioning helps athletes stay focused and confident, especially in high-pressure situations. Visualization: Before every routine, visualize each move from start to finish. Imagine yourself hitting every stunt perfectly, hearing the crowd cheer, and feeling proud of your performance. This exercise builds confidence and mental resilience. Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing helps manage stress and anxiety before a big performance. Practice controlled, deep breathing to calm your nerves and keep your mind clear. Positive Self-Talk: Simple statements like “I’ve got this” or “I am strong and capable” can help cheerleaders replace self-doubt with confidence. 3. Safety First: Protecting Our AthletesSafety is crucial in cheerleading. Fierce Cheer coaches are trained to ensure each athlete learns safe techniques for stunts, landings, and conditioning. Structured Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs: Warming up properly prepares muscles for intense activity and reduces the risk of injury. Our warm-up includes stretching, cardio, and strength exercises, while cool-downs help with muscle recovery. Step-by-Step Progressions: Our coaches break down complex stunts into manageable steps, ensuring athletes are comfortable with each movement before moving to the next level. Spotting and Supervision: Every session is supervised, and coaches spot athletes to guide them through each skill safely. At Fierce Cheer, we’re committed to helping every cheerleader reach their potential—safely, confidently, and with the support of our incredible team.