Brittany Callaway: Aces and Wildcards coach (level 1 and 3) Tumbling coach
Did you perform or compete?
I started cheer in my hometown little league program in Michigan when I was 5 years old and despite later experimenting with different sports, cheerleading remained a consistent passion for me throughout my school years and into college. During high school, my Varsity Competitive Cheer team achieved multiple Michigan regional championship titles and consecutively placed top 5 in state finals. After high school I was fortunate enough to be chosen as a staff member for a program called, "Champion Cheerleading" and had the opportunity to train high school programs from all over the state of Michigan the summer before college. I then went on to cheer at Bowling Green State University in Ohio as a base for the All Girl team and a flyer for the Coed team. After my 1st year of college, my cheerleading career ended as I made the decision to join the United States Marine Corps and embark on a new journey!
What motivates you as a coach to inspire your athletes ?
As a coach, my motivation stems from the desire to inspire and uplift my athletes both on and off the mat. I am driven by the opportunity to instill confidence, teamwork, and discipline in my athletes, empowering them to reach their full potential. Witnessing their growth and achievements, both as individuals and as a team, fuels my passion and commitment to coaching.
Do you have a favorite quote or coaching philosophy that you would like to share?
My favorite quote is, "ENERGY, EFFORT, and a POSITIVE attitude are non-negotiable!" I live by this quote in my personal life and as a Coach! My coaching philosophy centers around leading by example and the belief that every athlete has the potential to excel. I prioritize creating a supportive environment where athletes feel valued and empowered to push their limits. I emphasize the importance of hard work, dedication, and resilience, instilling the mindset that success is earned through perseverance and teamwork. I focus on the process, the whole journey, with the goal to develop not only skilled athletes but also individuals of character, integrity, and leadership, who carry the lessons learned on the mat into all aspects of their lives.
How long have you been coaching?
My coaching journey started as a junior coach for little league back when I was 12 years old. This experience sparked a passion that remains strong over 20 years later! Over the years, I've coached for a diverse range of cheerleading styles, accumulating extensive experience in the sport! I coached with my high school competitive cheer program after graduating for 2 years. I also had the unique opportunity to coach with high school programs and teach choreography in a variety of locations including North Carolina, South Carolina, Okinawa Japan, and Maryland throughout my 14 years serving as an active duty United States Marine. My military career brought my family and I to the DMV area which ultimately led me to join our teal family and continue my passion for coaching! I have been apart of the Mt. Airy coaching staff for 2 years and this will be my third season coaching with Cheer Extreme DMV!