Technology Integration

  • Film Review & Data Analysis

    Record. Review. Repeat. The ability to instantly review your technique and performance in near-real time is both invaluable to the athlete as well as the coach. Usage of a camera and television on a delay can provide feedback almost instantly in order to adjust the technique of the athlete(s) while keeping the flow of the practice moving. If needed, film review can be slowed down and analyzed further in order to pinpoint the changes that need to be made.

    In my time using video delay for review and data analysis, I have been able to individualize instruction where I see needs most attention. With video delay, the athletes can see if they are off count in choreography, if their tumbling passes need extra technique instruction, and if the stunts are in proper position on the mat. I have been able to narrow in on the most specific errors that could cause significant point deductions when it comes to execution. Utilizing video delay sets us up for the most successful practice so we are confident in everything we do.

    Athletes currently use film review and data analysis after each full-out performance. They gain experience in providing individual and team feedback. This objective data is a valuable technology integration resource.

  • Heart Rate & Fitness Trackers

    There are many beneficial uses for heart rate monitors across all sports, specifically cheerleading. At surface level, heart rate monitors can be used for conditioning to execute a high-scoring routine. Cheerleading relies heavily on conditioning in aerobic capacity in order to maintain endurance throughout an entire routine. We must know how to target our aerobic capacity zones (60-80% of our MAX HR) for an extended period of time. Heart rate monitors on each athlete while providing their results in real time allows the individual athlete to understand their heart rate zones and enhance their performance levels. This usage of technology can be carried throughout their athletic career and health journey for the rest of their lives.

    On a deeper scale, heart rate monitors can tell a coach when an athlete is most nervous. In cheerleading, a flyer must be confident in the air as much as a base needs to be confident in his/her consistency. I am able to track a flyer’s heart rate while running through the routine. If she is nervous, her heart rate is typically much higher and goes through sporadic peaks of abnormally higher heart rates. The athlete is able to understand his/her performance confidence through a steady heart rate in comparison to how well the routine is executed.

GHSA Cheerleading Rubric and Scores

Northside competition cheerleading competes with the Georgia High School Association in three regular season competitions, regional competition, and potentially state competition pending a top 16 placement from regions. GHSA upholds the safety of each athletes by outlining rules that are non-negotiable and strictly enforced. Coaches are encouraged to review each rule with every athlete to ensure rules are being followed with fidelity. GHSA also provides competition programs with the judges’ rubric for performance. The rubric details examples and expectations from three panels of judges: motions, tumbling, and stunts. Athletes are judged and given an overall performance score based on degree of difficulty and execution of skills.

Coaches, athletes, and other stakeholders are able to actively track and compare performance scores from other teams across the state. GHSA publishes competition scores weekly to encourage analysis and preparation for regions. Currently, Northside has made progress increasing scores for each regular-season competition and is seeded 14th in the state.

Youtube Channel

Following the methodology of digital flipped instruction, our cheerleading program emphasizes active learning during practice and training sessions by assigning material outside of our time together. Athletes learn all cheers, dances, and student section interactions through our personalized YouTube platform. Athletes are able to learn at their own pace and revisit choreography instruction, as needed. This encourages self-regulation. Our goal in practice is to train and build on skills that require our physical presence then revisit choreography as needed.

UCA All-American

The Northside Cheerleading program partners with the Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA) which extends privileges and opportunities to deserving athletes. Athletes wishing to audition for UCA All-American honors compete during summer camp. These individual athletes demonstrate jumps, cheers, dance, and optional tumbling. Upon selection, the athletes are honored with special recognition and invitations to national events. Northside currently has four All-American athletes for the 2024-2025 season and we encourage all upcoming athletes to learn more about this opportunity and audition next summer.

Novo Fitness Studio is a proud sponsor of Northside Cheerleading. Novo believes in helping women find the strongest and healthiest version of themselves. They are proud to offer five different fitness methods to meet the individual needs of each client. Athletes may choose between Barre, Buti, Yoga, Rebounders, or Pilates. Athletes have access to a limited membership with Novo Fitness Studio and are encouraged to attend one class per week. These classes are completed with the use of their personal heart rate and fitness tracker. Each class will increase our athlete’s cardio, balance, and flexibility. These benefits provide injury prevention and routine stamina. Classes may be accessed virtually through Novo’s On Demand library using the athlete’s personalized login or in person, within walking distance, next door to Northside High.