Many people assume injuries only bring setbacks for athletes, offering nothing positive in return. But for HSE cheerleaders, facing an injury right before competition season has become a chance to grow stronger. Instead of letting this setbacks define them, they’ve found ways to turn this challenge into a special opportunitie. They have this transformed difficult situations into powerful positives for both themselves and their team.
“I keep my positivity and energy up by encouraging my teammates” said Brooke Evers. “I think in order to lift yourself up, you have to lift up others first and my role right now is to uplift them and be there for them any way I can be while I heal”.
By choosing the mindset of staying positive and supporting others, the athletes remind themselves that an injury doesn’t just affect them, but it can ripple throughout the entire team. By focusing on encouragement, these cheerleaders are proving that even in tough times, leadership and positivity can shine just bright as their physical performance.
“While right now it’s hard to see a positive outcome, but I know it’s coming soon” said Sophia Mallov. “I just have to remember how much stronger this will make me and the comeback I will have”.
By keeping their spirits high even while injured, Evers and Mallov demonstrate strong mental toughness and a deep bond with their teammates. While they’ve been injured, it has given the rest of the team a chance to show support, and take on new responsibilities to fill in for their spots. This spirit of positivity not only builds resilience but also teaches lessons that will go far beyond cheerleading.
“Many of our athletes have to step up to take new spots, and learn many of new things for the routine to work” said Jojo Arata. “Many of our teammates have switched out spots, for instance trying basing instead of back spotting for the stunts”.
For these cheerleaders, this injury has also been a reminder of how much love they the sport. Taking time to heal gives athletes a new perspective and a deeper appreciation for performing at their best. When they return, their determination and gratitude will fuel them to come back stronger than ever, proving that setbacks can serve as a foundation for their best comeback yet.
“Even though these athletes can’t be out on the floor right now, their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed” said Jojo Arata. “The effort they put in to earn their spots shows their dedication to this team”.
