Alumni Spotlight

Post date: March 10, 2026

By Rylee Biester

At 23 years old, Bria Mineo is working her way through the coaching world. After years of cheerleading, she has now become the new assistant coach for the Southern Regional’s varsity cheerleading team. Coach Mineo was a cheerleader for Southern during her high school years, “I always wanted to come back and coach. I've been cheering since I was 7 so I have a lot of knowledge in the sport and being an athlete in the program myself I knew I'd be able to connect with the current athletes.” The team this year has had a very good season so far and plan to finish their season strong. “I think this program has potential to win a state title in both gameday and traditional intermediate and has a strong chance of advancing down in Florida at nationals.” Coach Mineo said. 

There’s many changes from playing the sport to coaching it. Coaching takes on a much bigger commitment to not only the sport, but the athletes as well. “My biggest adjustment was learning how to properly communicate with the girls. I want to be strict, so that the girls know my expectations. But I also want to be fun and nice so that the girls have an enjoyable experience. We are also close in age, so trying to figure out that dynamic has been interesting to say the least!” Mineo exclaimed. Perspective often alters when you are on the coaching side rather than being the athlete. Coach Mineo talks about how her perspective changed when becoming a coach. “My perspective changed by the amount of time and effort that previous and current coaches have placed into this program. There is a lot of behind the scenes efforts and planning beyond scheduled games, practices, and competitions.” With her unique perspective as both a former athlete and a passionate coach, Bria Mineo is well on her way to shaping the future of Southern Regional's cheerleading program, leading her team with dedication, insight, and a genuine desire to help them succeed.