Denise Harris My name is Denise Harris and I have been blessed with an amazing "job". I have been the Pep Squad Advisor and Head Coach at Trabuco Hills High School for the past 18 years. After cheering in Junior High, High school, College and Professionally, you would think that I would have burned out long ago. But instead, I still have a strong passion for it. I am so proud to say that I am part of an industry that helps young women and men, gain the respect that they deserve as athletes. Whether it be on the sideline at a sporting event,on the competition floor, pep rally, assembly or community event, they are demonstrating many different skills that take physical, mental and emotional strength and courage. They practice and prepare for their sport, just like any other team on campus. Each year I am faced with and always asked the same question, " How long will you keep doing this?" My answer is always, "as long as I can! Coaching cheerleading is a big part of me, a part that I can't imagine my life without. Each year is always unique in some way or another, and the new squads always bring something new and exciting to our program. I figure when there is more "drama" then rewards, and more frustration than happiness, I will need to hang up my pom poms and megaphone. But that hasn't happened yet. Not even close!!! Sure, I've been tested many times, but not broken. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with these amazing young people! My advice to new coaches who want to experience the longeveity that I have, is to just hang in there until you have your feet firmly planted! It takes a few years. Communicate with your booster groups and set the boundaries from the beginning. Be on the same page as your administration. If you aren't, at the beginning of your relationship with them, find a way to. I have a supportive Booster Club that I could not function without and an administration that makes me confident to go to work everyday. I don't have only one philosophy when it comes to coaching. I have many different ones that I use in different situations. Some have changed over time, as has our industry. But one constant philosopy that I like to share ( and the girls quote me on it year after year) is "to get the job done and then have fun. And you should have fun, doing that job!!!" And boy do I have fun!!!!! |
