Sydney Van Hoorebeke wears many hats at Benton Grade School: she teaches first grade and coaches the Jr. High cheerleading team. Her passion for cheerleading, rooted in years of personal experience, shines through in her work with the young athletes. Under her leadership, Benton Jr. High’s cheerleaders learn not only the fundamentals of the sport but also the importance of teamwork, resilience, and school pride.

Sydney’s love for cheerleading began early. Growing up in Christopher, Illinois, she started gymnastics at the age of five and transitioned to cheerleading in junior high. She cheered through high school, competed for All Star Gym, and embraced the lessons of discipline, determination, and collaboration that cheerleading offered.

After graduating from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 2022 with a degree in elementary education, Sydney began teaching at Benton Grade School. She took on the role of cheerleading coach during her second year and quickly established herself as a leader who balances fun with structure.

“I loved the competitive side of cheerleading, but I also loved the relationships I formed with my teammates and coaches,” Sydney shares. “Now, I want to give my girls that same experience—to teach them the fundamentals while fostering kindness and support for one another.”

For Sydney, cheerleading is more than a sport—it’s a foundation for lifelong skills. Through stunts, tumbling, and floor cheers, her team learns the value of hard work and perseverance. Sydney emphasizes safety and encourages her athletes to step out of their comfort zones.

“We had one girl this year who was nervous to try her back handspring at tryouts,” Sydney recalls. “But she did it, and now she can do it confidently all season. It’s moments like these that show how cheerleading builds confidence.”

Cheerleading also teaches her athletes to handle challenges with grace. Whether it’s navigating tricky stunts or ignoring negative comments from the crowd, Sydney empowers her team to stay focused and positive. “I remind them to block out distractions and focus on themselves,” she says. “It’s about building confidence and resilience.”

Sydney’s coaching philosophy is rooted in building relationships and fostering unity. She organizes team bonding activities, like a Christmas party, to strengthen connections among her athletes. “I want the girls to support each other, both on and off the mat,” she says.

Her assistant coach, Lindsey Meadows, plays a crucial role in creating a collaborative and supportive environment. Together, they ensure the team feels valued and motivated. This year, the school provided new uniforms and poms, a gesture that bolstered team pride. “The girls love them, and it makes them feel special,” Sydney says.

The junior high cheerleaders cheer at boys’ and girls’ basketball games, rallying the crowd and supporting Benton Jr. High’s athletes. While the team doesn’t compete, their role in building school spirit is undeniable.

“We bring energy to the games and engage the community,” Sydney explains. “It’s about more than just cheering—it’s about creating a positive atmosphere and encouraging everyone to come together to support our school.”

One memorable moment from last year was a school-day basketball game, where the entire middle school watched the cheerleaders perform. “The girls loved seeing their friends cheer along with them,” Sydney says. “It showed how much joy and connection cheerleading brings to our school.”

Cheerleading isn’t without its challenges, and Sydney is committed to addressing issues like body image, confidence, and peer dynamics. She works to create a safe and supportive environment where her athletes can grow.

“I tell my girls they’re beautiful and capable,” she says. “Cheerleading is about so much more than appearances—it’s about building each other up and celebrating our strengths.”

For Sydney, the most rewarding part of coaching is watching her athletes grow. “I’ve stayed in touch with girls who graduated last year, and it’s amazing to see what they’re doing now,” she shares. “One of my cheerleaders even wrote me a letter thanking me for being her coach. That kind of appreciation makes it all worth it.”

As a teacher and coach, Sydney is shaping the next generation of leaders. Whether it’s teaching first graders the fundamentals of reading or guiding cheerleaders through stunts, she’s making a lasting impact on her students and athletes.