
IMAGINE A WHOSE, WHO LIST OF BREAKOUT ATHLETES ACROSS THE U.S.A.
Athletes stand out for a multitude of reasons. A great tumbler, a great top person, an amazing or captivating performer. We began taking notice in December 2017, through March 2018 of athletes who stood out on and off the performance floor. We’re excited to celebrate the incredible athlete, and people that each of them are this season.
Congratulations to our inaugural group of 30 Breakout Athletes to Watch at The World Championship!
Tayler Figo | FAME All Stars
Team:Â Super Seniors
Division:Â Â Senior Medium All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Virginia Beach, VA
Years Active:Â 2003-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, Back Handspring, Through to Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings to Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Chris Boykin, he made me the cheerleader that I am today, and he has coached me for 14 years.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“Hitting a perfect routine in semi-finals, hopefully making it to finals to hit another perfect routine.”
When she grows up?
Business Owner, hopefully a Cheer Gym!
Follow Tayler’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Diana Johnson | Cheer Athletics
Team:Â Panthers
Division: Senior Large All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Plano, TX
Years Active:Â 2010-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, Whip, Arabian, through to Whip, Double Twisting Full, through to Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Double Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Brad Habermel, Ambrel Brannon, John Davenport, Joe O’Toole, and Derrick Jackson. They are all super pushing, and supportive to make me the best athlete possible.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“To hit two perfect routines.”
When she grows up?
Something to help others!
Follow Diana’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Kristen McCain| Woodlands Elite
Team:Â Black Ops
Division: Senior Medium Coed 5
Hometown:Â Cypress, TX
Years Active:Â 2006-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Punch Front Round off Back Handspring, Double Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Whip, Double Twisting Full, Bounce Back, Two Back Handsprings, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Jessica Marshall because she pushes me to do my best and helps me be the best competitor I could possibly be!”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“To have two solid hit routines.”
When she grows up?
Physical Therapist
Follow Kristen’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Kacie Elizabeth Kier | Cheer Express All Stars (FL)
Team:Â Miss Silver
Division:Â Â Senior Extra Small All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Clearwater, FL
Years Active:Â 2013-2018
Position:Â Secondary Base
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, Back Handspring, One & a Half Twist through to Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Toe Touch, Two Standing Back Handsprings to Double Twisting Full & Toe Touch, Standing Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Kimberely Dickenson because she motivates me and always challenges me to reach my fullest potential. At the same time she is caring and passionate, I truly consider her family and go to her for anything on or off the mat.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“To hit 2 perfect routines.”
When she grows up?
Physical Therapist
Follow Kacie’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Kylana Whitley | Spirit of Texas
Team:Â A Team
Division: Senior Medium All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Dallas, TX
Years Active:Â 2007-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Layout Step out, through to Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Krista Godbee, she has been there for me not only as a coach but as a second mom. She knows how to fix my cheerleading, and teach me ways to be the best person I can be.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“To hit a flawless zero deduction routine both days.”
When she grows up?
Physical Therapist
Follow Kylana’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Coleman Payne | SCV All Stars
Team:Â X5
Division: Senior Extra Small Coed 5
Hometown:Â Santa Clarita, CA
Years Active:Â 2013-2018
Position:Â Backspot
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Punch Front through to Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Whip, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Danielle Wick, she has helped me through my years of being a cheerleader, and has led my teams to success many times.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My number 1 goal at worlds is to hit 2 solid and great routines, to end the season off right.”
When he grows up?
Broadway Actor
Follow Coleman’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when his team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Kristen Williams | ICE All Stars
Team:Â Lady Lightning
Division: Senior Small All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Aurora, IL
Years Active:Â 2008-2018
Position:Â Backspot
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“It wouldn’t be right to choose one without the other – Brittani Vaughn has been my coach ever since I started cheer. She has taught me every tumbling skill I know. Darlene Fanning has taught me how to be an all around cheerleader. They both have inspired me on and off the floor. They both have coached me to be a World Champion!”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“For my team and I to earn Back to Back World Championships.”
When he grows up?
Orthopedic Surgeon
Follow Kristen’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Kennedy Thames | Rockstar Cheer
Team:Â Beatles
Division:Â Â Senior Medium Coed 5
Hometown:Â Lexington, SC
Years Active:Â 2010-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Single twisting full, whip, double twisting full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing two back handsprings, single twisting full, whip, double twisting full
Most Influential Coach:
“Scott Foster and Dustin Wingate, because they were the first coaches I met at Rockstar and they made me fall in love with cheerleading again. They provided me with an amazing opportunity, and if it wasn’t for them, I probably would have quit cheerleading in 2015.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My goal is to hit both days, hopefully resulting in a World Championship title.”
When she grows up?
Pediatric Dentist
Follow Kennedy’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Terrel Lowery | Maryland Twisters
Team:Â Reign
Division:Â Â Senior Medium Coed 5
Hometown:Â District Heights, MD
Years Active:Â 2012-2018
Position:Â Secondary Base & Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, One & Half Twist, through to Double Twisting Full, Bounce Back through to Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Double Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Matt Green is the coach that influences me the most. He holds me to a high standard. He always pushes me to do my best. Coach Matt believes in me. He knows that every time I touch the mat I will give 110% in everything I do. That’s why I chose him as the coach that influences me the most.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My number one goal is making history. To be the first coed team in Maryland to ever win Worlds.”
When she grows up?
“As I venture into the world as an adult I would like to become choreographer, and have my own studio/gym.”
Follow Terrel’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when his team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Jarrod Rica | Brandon All Stars
Team:Â Senior Black
Division: Senior Small Coed 5
Hometown:Â Dover, DE
Years Active:Â 2009-2018
Position:Â Secondary Base
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, Arabian, Round off, Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Single Back Handspring, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Joslynne Harrod is somebody who pushes me to be my best on and off the mat as a person, and as an athlete.
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“To have two strong hits with my team.”
When he grows up?
Athletic Trainer
Follow Jarrod’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when his team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Sutton Hodges | Cheer Extreme
Team:Â SSX
Division: Senior Small All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Garner, NC
Years Active:Â 2007-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, Back Handspring, Whip, Whip, Arabian through to Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Kelly Helton has made a significant impact on my cheerleading career because she watch me grow from a Glitter Star (Mini Level 2) to now. She has always pushed me to continue to grow and become better. It was never really about winning, but pushing myself to be my personal best.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My number 1 goal is to “hit” my personal best routine with my 21 sisters who do the same. Ultimately, I hope that I can walk away from the competition with no regrets.”
When she grows up?
Physical Therapist, who specializes in treating children.
Follow Sutton’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Cooper Contreras | Top Gun All Stars
Team:Â TGLC
Division: Senior Large Coed 5
Hometown:Â Wappingers Falls, NY
Years Active:Â 2012-2018
Position:Â Main Base
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Punch Front, through to Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Two Back Handsprings, Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Coach Victor Rosario for his wholehearted dedication and passion towards his job, athletes, and family.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“Hit two beautiful routines, while insipring others and making my coaches proud.”
When he grows up?
“I hope to one day be able to work for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.”
Follow Cooper’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when his team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Mika Hayes | World Cup All Stars
Team:Â Shooting Stars
Division:Â Â Senior Large All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Freehold, NJ
Years Active:Â 2008-2018
Position:Â Main Base
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Single Twisting Full, Whip, Arabian through to Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing One Back Handspring, Whip, Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Tiy Fountain, when he coached me, he acted like he was a second father. He would talk to me about anything whether it would be cheer, or in my personal life.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My goal is to leave the worlds mat with no regrets, next to my 37 other sisters.”
When she grows up?
Nurse
Follow Mika’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Madison Brum | East Celebrity Elite
Team:Â Bombshells
Division:Â Â Senior Medium All Girl 5
Hometown:Â Dracut, MA
Years Active:Â 2008-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Punch Front, through to Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Both of my current coaches Colleen O’Shea, and Stephen Belanger because they have influenced me to be the best I can be, and to never give up on myself. I wouldn’t be the person I am without them.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My #1 Goal would be to hit two 0 deduction routines, and defend my team’s title.”
When she grows up?
Business Manager
Follow Madison’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Zachary Lebel | The California All Stars
Team:Â Black Ops
Division: Senior Medium Coed 5
Hometown:Â Pensacola, FL
Years Active:Â 2014-2018
Position:Â Backspot
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off Back Handspring, Double Twisting Full, Whip Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings to Double Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Neda Emamjomeh, because she has taught me to never give up, no matter what.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“To hit two perfect 0 deduction routines with my team.”
When he grows up?
Physical Therapist
Follow Zachary’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when his team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Harrison Milford | Spirit of Texas
Team:Â Royalty
Division: Senior Medium Coed 5
Hometown:Â Arlington, TX
Years Active:Â 2003-2018
Position:Â Backspot
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, Double Twisting Full, Whip, Arabian through to Kick Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing Two Back Handsprings, Double Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Brett Hansen. He has taught me so many things more than just cheerleading. My Coach Brett has developed me and many others to be the best personal athlete that I can be. He has pushed me to my limits, and showed me the true meaning of what cheerleading should be. I can thank him for teaching me everything there is to know about cheerleading!”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My number 1 goal is to put out two amazing zero deduction performances with my team. There truly is no better feeling than walking off the floor knowing you just killed it with your team!”
When he grows up?
“A successful cheerleading coach. I have always had the biggest love and passion for the sport of cheerleading ever since I was a little boy. It is something I think about everyday, and I can’t wait to live out my dream!”
Follow Harrison’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when his team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Emily Bott | Long Island Cheer
Team:Â Diamonds
Division:Â Â Senior Small Coed 5
Hometown:Â East Islip, NY
Years Active:Â 2010-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Arabian, through to Double Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing One Back Handspring, Single Twisting Full, Whip, Double Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“Andre Banks – he pushes me to be better and want better for myself. From the beginning he was tough, never let me not do something, never let me settle. he always pushed me until I knew I could do it. I appreciate his honesty, he is my biggest critic, but my biggest supporter.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“My #1 Goal coming into worlds is to make my first World Championship with my team the best performance we have ever had!”
When she grows up?
Own a Gym, and Coach
Follow Emily’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.
Madison Ramming | Twist & Shout All Stars
Team:Â Diamonds
Division:Â Â Senior Small Coed 5
Hometown:Â Warner, OK
Years Active:Â 2006-2018
Position:Â Top Person
Best Running Tumbling Pass:
Round off, Back Handspring, Double Twisting Full
Best Standing Tumbling Pass:
Standing One Back Handspring, Single Twisting Full
Most Influential Coach:
“David Petty is one of the most influential coaches I have had in my life. He has always been one of the most patient and positive people i know, and helped me overcome tumbling, flying, and even life fears and stress throughout the time I have known him.”
Number One Goal at the 2018 World Championship:
“To give my heart and soul along side my best friends / teammates as we do our last routines of the season. I want the entire arena to feel our passion for this sport, and our love for each other.”
When she grows up?
Career in Medical Field
Follow Madison’s journey at The 2018 World Championships, visit Worlds Central | 2018 to see when her team is competing, and if they’ll advance to the Final Round of the championship.