Manitoba Storm Cheerleading was started in the summer of 2008 by Nadia El-Gabalawy and Carrie Robson. Recognizing a need for a highly competitive experience for gymnasts interested in cheerleading, a Level 5 all-girl team was created to compete in the 2008/2009 cheerleading season.
Coached by Nadia and Carrie, the team achieved numerous first place standings in both Manitoba and other provinces. Over the past year the interest in Manitoba Storm Cheerleading surpassed their ability to meet the needs based on their current circumstances.
Having met with Amanda Epp on numerous occasions over the past two years to discuss the potential of a large-scale cheerleading program, the pair approached her with a desire to pursue this vision. The addition of the expertise of Tim Epp created a team that was confident in developing their vision for the province.
Storm Cheer had four successful teams in the 2009/2010 season. This included a mini team coached by Leah Nowak and Spencer Weisensel, a junior team coached by Jade Griffiths and Danessa Picard, a Senior 4.2 team coached by Tammy Burke and Kathryn White and a Senior 4 team coached by Carrie Robson, Chantelle Harvey -Houghton and Nadia El-Gabalawy. Each team saw many successes throughout the season and we are so proud of all our Storm Cheer athletes and coaches.
Presently, cheerleading is beginning to see significant development in the province of Manitoba. The introduction of a new regulating body, known as the Manitoba Cheer Federation, as well as the development and success of the Canadian Cheer Union's Team Canada has pushed cheerleading further than ever before. The interest in cheerleading is growing each year, as has the number of experienced athletes looking for a place to further develop their skills. Storm Cheer wants to meet those needs by providing a program dedicated to the development of cheerleaders at the elite level. Being competitive within the province and outside the borders including into the United States will offer athletes an experience that is exciting, fun, challenging and positive.
