Some people follow other people’s footsteps, while others choose to create their own trail. It would be an understatement to say Illinois State University senior Nathaniel Beltran had a hard life growing up. Motivated by his past, he overcomes life’s challenges and devotes his life investing into other people, so they can become the best version of themselves. Beltran could have graduated early, but decided … Continue reading ISU student defies odds, devoting his life to helping others around him

A back-handspring is a solid skill that cheerleaders should be familiar with. Here is a tutorial I made awhile back to help teach the technique and drills for this skill. Continue reading Back-handspring Tutorial

Stunting is one of my favorite parts about cheerleading and learning how to fly with proper technique is essential to make a stunt hit. Here are some tips for top-girls, or flyers, that can help you improve your skills in the air. Stretching It is important for all cheerleaders to be flexible to avoid injuries and to execute clean skills. It is essential for the … Continue reading Top-Girl Tips

The Illinois State University 2021-2022 cheerleading season finished this weekend with a banquet to celebrate the hard work this year, seniors and come together as a team one last time before the new season begins. I asked some cheerleaders the question: What was your favorite memory? Some spoke of their favorite memory of all time and others shared their favorite memory for this season. All … Continue reading ISU Cheerleaders Answer: What Is Your Favorite Memory Of This Season?

My mother did not allow me to pursue cheerleading when I was younger, however, by refusing to take “no” as an answer I have been able to live my dreams. Cheerleading taught me several life-lessons, gave me confidence and made a major impact on who I am today. Although I joined later than most kids, my strong-interests transformed into a true passion ever since I … Continue reading Living My Childhood Dream

Preparing for cheerleading clinics can be stressful, especially if you are going to try out for a new squad, but attending can be extremely beneficial. It is a fantastic way to work on skills for tryouts, meet new people and learn about different programs are all about. These tips can help you relive some stress and help you get prepared. Paperwork Nothing is worse thank … Continue reading Tips for Cheer Clinics

I got to travel and get ahead on schoolwork this spring break. My boyfriend Zach picked me up and we went to the University of Missouri since his break does not start until later this March. We still had fun and went to the bars and explore local coffee shops. I got to work on some scholarship essays too, which is great because deadlines are … Continue reading Studious Spring Break at Mizzou

Here is a short gallery of a day of practice. I got to stunt with one of my good friends on co-ed. I am on the women’s squad, so I typically do not get to do one-man stunting and it was cool to learn something new. Later that day, I went back home and did some strength training. I try to exercise outside of practice … Continue reading Practice in Pictures

Preparation for tryouts begins as the cheerleading season comes to a close. Here are three tips to help you improve and stay motivated during the off-season. Stay Moving It is important to keep up strength and endurance and it can help you improve your skills in the long run. Nothing is worse than digressing and staying active can be really easy and fun. You can … Continue reading Off-Season Tips

Senior members on the Illinois State University women’s basketball team got to celebrate their time spent as collegiate athletes during one of the last games of the season at Redbird Arena against Southern Illinois University on Feb. 22. There were multiple parts of the night dedicated to the seniors, including an introductory walk with family members and heart-warming videos displaying the seniors reminiscing on their … Continue reading ISU Women’s Basketball Senior Night Game Against SIU