Mention the word cheerleader and the mind conjures up an image of pompom wieldling young women in lycra hugging outfits, pony tails and snow-white coloured sports shoes chanting for their favourite sports team as they are tossed high into the air.
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Wrong.
Although originally from the United States, cheerleading is now one of the fastest growing sports in Australia with more than 53,000 competitors throughout the country.
The popularity of the sport has grown to the point where it was last year granted provisional Olympic status by the IOC.
When it was introduced to Australia in the early 2000s, cheerleading was quickly embraced by thousands of young women and men, including former elite gymnast, Danielle Jimenez.
Cheerleading is an inclusive sport for all ages, abilities and sexes, Danielle says.
"There is a level for everyone; it is literally for anyone."
Along with husband Alex, Danielle earlier this month opened Great Lakes Cheerleading in Forster to cater for the growing number of local youngsters embracing the sport.
The couple, who both took up the sport more than 15 years ago, say it is fun, very athletic, enjoyable to watch and it is an indoor sport that can done throughout the year.
Before moving to Forster four years ago, the Jimenezs owned and operated one of the most successful gyms in the country.
Now, along with their Forster-based gym the couple run one of the largest event and apparel companies in Australian cheerleading.
Opened for just a handful of weeks and sporting all the latest equipment, the facility is already a huge hit with youngsters throughout Forster Tuncurry and surrounding areas, with many travelling from Taree, Nabiac, Pacific Palms and all points in between.
The couple is supported by two, highly skilled American coaches who have also relocated to Forster.
Both have achieved some of the highest awards both in Australia and overseas and bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the Great Lakes, Danielle said.
Like many who flee the Sydney-scene in search of a better lifestyle the couple and their two young children regularly holidayed in the Great Lakes.
"There is just something about this town," Alex said.
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"When you cross that bridge, and look at the water, there is just something about it."
Not only was the area's natural beauty a big drawcard, but they believed it was a better fit for their young family.
"You own your own business, but it is like being on holidays every day.
Classes for children aged from three years to 18 are held from Monday to Friday, 4-8pm.
Sessions are limited to 12 children to ensure they get the maximum attention from coaches.
"We want to see kids doing an activity which is not stressful, but we also want them to have goals and have ambition and to achieve things," Danielle said.
"Also, we want them to be involved, have a sense of community and to create memories."
Contact Shayla at hello@greatlakescheerleading.com.au
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Jeanene Duncan
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
