While on the surface this question may seem like it will have a very debatable answer, the true response is really quite simple, and I believe Cheer Coaches across the universe will agree in the vast majority.
The one thing you should never forget to bring to Cheer practice isn’t your bow, your water bottle, or even your shoes – it’s your POSITIVE attitude.
While practice gear and accessories are certainly important, your attitude shapes how you perform, how you work with your teammates, and how much you improve over time.
A positive attitude is what turns a regular practice into a great one and helps you grow as both an athlete and a person.
When you walk into the gym with a positive attitude, it sets the tone for your entire practice.
You show your coaches that you are ready to learn and willing to work hard.
You show your teammates that you’re dependable and supportive.
Even on days when you might be tired or frustrated, having the right mindset helps you push through challenges instead of giving up.
All Star Cheer is both physically and mentally demanding, so staying upbeat and open-minded makes a huge difference in how successful you can be.
A positive attitude also helps you deal with mistakes.
EVERYONE falls, forgets counts, or struggles with a stunt now and then.
Instead of getting embarrassed or upset, cheerleaders with good attitudes see mistakes as chances to learn.
Maybe your backspot grip slipped or your jump wasn’t high enough – rather than blaming others or getting down on yourself, you focus on what to fix next time.
This mindset doesn’t just make you better, it inspires everyone around you to do the same.
In All Star Cheer, teamwork is everything.
You rely on your teammates for every stunt, pyramid, and transition.
When one person brings negative energy, it can affect the whole group.
But when you bring a positive attitude, you help lift up the team’s spirit.
You become someone others look forward to practicing with because you cheer them on and keep things encouraging, even when practice gets tough.
This kind of positivity builds trust and helps your team perform with confidence.
Coaches also notice when athletes have a good attitude.
They value cheerleaders who are respectful, hardworking, and willing to try again after a failed skill.
A positive attitude shows that you care about improving and that you respect the sport.
It also shows maturity and leadership, which are important qualities for moving up levels or earning key positions on your team.
Bringing a positive attitude doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect.
Some days will be harder than others.
You might be sore, stressed, or disappointed about something.
But it means choosing to focus on effort instead of excuses, and growth instead of giving up.
Simple actions—like smiling, saying “we’ve got this,” or giving a teammate a high five—can change the whole atmosphere of practice.
Of course, physical items like your water bottle, shoes, and practice gear are still important, but they won’t help you hit a perfect routine without the right mindset.
Skills can be taught, and strength can be built, but a positive attitude has to come from within.
The next time you pack your bag for practice, make sure your practice gear and sneakers are ready – but most importantly, pack your positive attitude.
It’s the one thing that costs nothing, takes up no extra space, and yet makes the biggest difference in how you train, perform, and grow as an athlete and a teammate.
