| NJ SPORTS TRAINING |
 |
|
|
|
 |
Each year the NJCCA (New Jersey Cheerleading Coaches Association)
recognizes outstanding Cheerleading and Dance Coaches in their hope to acknowledge the efforts and commitment of New Jersey coaches. This year our very own Varsity Cheerleading Coach, Laura Haag, was one of five coaches throughout the state selected for the prestigious award. Laura has been coaching the Varsity Cheerleading Squad at St. James for approximately 8 years. During that time her squad has been one of the top three Catholic School Teams in the Middlesex and Middletown area due to her commitment to the girls, her expertise and the discipline she expects and gets from the girls. The Varsity Squad has also placed 2nd in the State competition for the past three years. After leaving the St. James program, former cheerleaders consistently come back and thank her for pushing them to be their best and to tell her they miss the structure and discipline of her coaching. At the beginning of each school year, Laura speaks to the girls and lets them know what is expected of them. From the onset the girls realize that they are a team and are expected to treat one another, their fellow students, coaches, parents, faculty and other teams with respect and kindness.Laura has been a major force in the successfulness of many of St. James' athletic events. She expends a lot of time and energy in coordinating the St. James Cheerleading Competition which is the Athletic Departments major fundraiser. She is committed to the school and it's expectations of academic excellence. Laura realizes that cheerleading is not all about competitions and sets standards for the attendance of the cheerleaders at basketball games and all school functions. Having been coaching for many years, Laura has an excellent knowledge of cheerleading. She consistently researches new approaches and developements in cheerleading and coaching. She shares this knowledge with her team, other coaches at St. James as well as coaches from other schools. She has been called upon, many times, by our Jr Pep, Pep, and J.V. coaches for her assistance regarding establishment and improvement of cheer/dance routines, stunting, tumbling, choreography and team bonding. Laura's commitment to the cheerleaders involves teaching them the importance of good sportsmanship both on and off the floor. Laura teaches by example and is responsible for instilling commitment of her girls to the team, individual members and the school. She encourages her team members to be part of the process of developing ideas for school functions. She has high expectations and her cheerleaders respond by being committed to their school, faculty and fellow students. St. James cheerleaders have consistently been leaders in the highschool programs they eventually become involved with.
|
|
