Name: Bria Lyles
Age: 22
Occupation: Cheerleading Coach
My Cheer Journey:
Cheerleading has been a part of my life for 12 amazing years, opening doors and shaping who I am today. Through cheer, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to travel the world at a young age, stay focused, and build lifelong friendships. It taught me the value of teamwork and discipline, keeping me out of trouble and constantly pushing me to be my best self.
I started my cheer journey at an all-black gym, which gave me a strong sense of community and pride. However, when I advanced to a higher-level team at a different gym, I found myself as the only black girl on the team. This experience opened my eyes to the lack of representation in cheerleading, especially at higher levels, and competitions.
My Vision:
As a coach now, I’m passionate about changing that narrative. I’ve noticed a lack of black and brown girls at competitions, and I wanted to do something about it. That’s why I started a cheerleading program specifically designed for black and brown girls from underprivileged communities.
What began as a biweekly, free tumbling clinic aimed at millennials quickly grew beyond our expectations. The response was overwhelming, and it showed me just how much this space was needed. Today, I’ve expanded the program into a non-travel all-star team, providing opportunities for young girls who might not have had the chance to experience the beauty of cheerleading otherwise.
Why I’m Passionate:
I believe that cheerleading can change lives, just as it changed mine. It’s more than just a sport—it’s a way to build confidence, foster friendships, and create a sense of belonging. My goal is to provide a space where black and brown girls can thrive, see themselves represented, and feel empowered to pursue their dreams, both on and off the mat.
