I had the pleasure of observing the Boston University cheerleading team practice the other night.  Coach Tarryn Walsh, herself a BU grad and former cheerleader,  has put together a compelling group of 21 spirited cheerleaders – 2 men and 19 women – who cheer at BU’s men’s and women’s home basketball games. 

Cheerleading is a club sport at Boston University and this is the first time the team has men on board.  The team will be competing at NCA’s nationals in April, Coach Walsh said, and so the team is spending time now getting their routine down in preparation for the big event. 

Boston University is known for its academic rigor and cheerleaders must find time to keep up with their academics and devote time to cheer practice. We’re talking big time dedication here! 

Being a club team, the level of expertise and experience varies among the cheerleaders but everyone seemed to be having a good time and the more experienced cheerleaders were generous and respectful in offering helpful tips to those who were less experienced. Even when a routine was less than perfect, there was a great deal of laughter and camaraderie and – importantly – there was continued effort to do it again and again and again until they got it right!  I never saw anyone look disgruntled or disheartened.  It seems the team has the right attitude: it’s about fun, it’s about learning, and it’s about connection.  It’s also about taking on the challenge of moving out of your comfort zone to take a risk and work towards success. Yep – that’s the right stuff!