What I learnt from being an audience in Cheerleading..

It was the first time I've ever attended such a competition. I've always had the impression that Cheer would be some exciting, high-energy, full of stunt and rar-rar activities going on (as we often watch American movies). I guess its about the same for sports named "cheerleading" across many other countries. My mother on the other hand, taught that cheer was more of holding pom-poms and standing along the sidelines of games like volleyball, basketball and the like. I wished they could also do that too in such sports in Singapore! But, I guess with all the challenging stunts and unpredictable mishaps that happen, the cheer would probably take the centre stage as compared to the 'real sports' going on. Hence, I guess thats another reason why such inter-sports thing never happens. Thanks to my sister, I had this opportunity to see first-hand, the pains and gains in Cheer. 

It was held at the Singapore Badminton Association, a pretty run-down venue with poor ventilation, but it was still bearable in the sweltering heat of the day. It was already 1pm. 

I knew some of my sister's friends from cheer when she invited her over to our house, it was a great feeling to see someone you know performing, and being there to support that person. I felt honoured to be there to be providing that moral support for these people whom I barely know, dressed in neat cheer-style uniforms and heavy, glittery make-up. I felt happy for my sister who is (or was) part of the team.

When the event started and ALL STUNTS UP, I secretly felt very touched for all their effort. It never looks easy, and I know it isn't at all. I knew that if my sister were at the stage, tears would flow down my face. I'm proud of her even though she's not participating this time round. It is not an easy task. And I've also seen how much she has invested so much time, bruises (which also caused her to visit the chinese physician weekly for a period of time) and passion for the people and this sport. For a moment, I felt guilty because we encouraged her not to continue with it because of the danger and injuries that come along with it. I knew she would be happy to be up there, and I would be too. But, we loved her and she loved us. Still, she was also happy to be supporting her teammates.

As I watched the competition between the various teams from different institutions, here are some points of what I've experienced.

1) Teamwork, commitment, communication, and trust is of utmost importance in this sport. 

2) Practice does not necessarily make perfect; but the effort put into practice makes what is "imperfect" much more worthy. 

3) Support (physically & mentally & from your loved ones) is paramount.

4) The right attitude. 

Lastly, I'm really proud of my sister. I'm not sure whether going back hall late, sleeping late, being stressed with time management, having injuries and back aches and a hell lot of other sacrifices make such an experience worth it (if in my case, I doubt so and would pursue something else) but ultimately it is her decision to weigh these factors and to learn from the experience.