Cheerleading has had a very positive impact on my life. Being a member of several teams has taught me numerous important characteristics. Although I have participated in various sports, being a cheerleader has been my primary focus and has had the most impact in my life. During the many hours spent in the gym perfecting routines, stunts, and tumbling, I developed characteristics that are not only important in cheerleading but also in life. An important trait of any squad member is to be a person of good character. Emotions can run high whether it be preparing for a competition or cheering on your football team and fans; a cheerleader must be energetic, optimistic, and composed. As the anticipation increases throughout the competition season, teams must continue to pull together and encourage one another in order to achieve the shared goal of a championship. Respect for other squad members allows the team to work cohesively toward a common goal. Cheerleaders develop friendships that will often last a lifetime. The squad becomes your second family, and together, the team grows and matures, developing life skills that will benefit each cheerleader forever. The sport of cheerleading teaches hard work, perseverance, competitiveness, and teamwork. Plus, the underlying qualities of a cheerleader, friendliness, optimism, respectfulness, and accountability are all skills that will benefit me in the future.