National Coaches Day

Erika Blackwell, the dynamic cheerleading coach at East High School, has become a key figure in shaping not just top-tier athletes but confident, disciplined young leaders. She believes that a great cheerleader coach must do more than teach routines; they must build a culture of trust and accountability while inspiring athletes to push beyond their limits. Erika’s coaching style is rooted in patience and adaptability, ensuring that each cheerleader feels valued and motivated to grow.
Her success lies in fostering a close-knit team environment and setting high, achievable goals. Erika prioritizes clear communication and personal development, helping students balance the demands of academics and athletics. She’s also known for staying ahead of trends in choreography and conditioning, keeping her squads competitive at the local and regional levels. By focusing not just on performance but also on character development, Erika has turned East High’s cheer program into a source of school pride, producing not only award-winning squads but also well-rounded students prepared for life beyond high school.