Cheerleading is all about enthusiasm and one team in Medicine Hat has plenty of it.
The special abilities team at Toxic Elite Cheer fosters inclusivity, providing a welcoming space for all to enjoy the sport.
Despite their intimidating team name ‘Venom’, cheerleader Jenelle Forbes told CHAT News they’re all about positivity.
“My teammates are really amazing. They’re sweet, they’re fun to be with, they’re funny, they’re just really amazing,” Forbes said.
According to cheerleader Taylor McLeod, that can-do attitude paid off towards the end of this season.
“Last trip we went to was Edmonton, which was on Saturday and we got first, so that was awesome,” said McLeod.
Last weekend’s competition was the last this season in Canada.
However, two Toxic Elite teams, including Venom, are heading to Mexico for the the Magical Championship of the World competition.
“I think it’s going to be a really fun and exciting experience to get to show the world what our team is capable of,” Forbes told CHAT News.
Coach Dakota Darbyson and Debbie Shultz believe it’s an important trip, so the club can show the world that inclusivity is vital.
“We want to show that we’re serious about competing and taking it internationally is something beyond our wildest dreams,” Darbyson explained.
For the last three seasons that Toxic Elite Cheer has been in operation, inclusivity has been a focus for founder Debbie Schultz
“I think that’s what a lot of people like, that they’re equal participants in the gym as every other athlete and they get the same opportunities,” Schultz said.
“They get the same coaching, the same expectations.”
Another way Schultz has prioritized inclusivity is by keeping registration costs low, understanding how important the sport is to athletes’ lives.
“[Cheerleading] kind of helped with my mental health,” Forbes said.
“It helps me so I’m outside more and practicing the routine and building kind of friendships.”
Venom heads to Puerto Vallarta for competition starting on May 13, with all their enthusiasm in tow.
