Fall Conference Highlights

The 2021 WACPC Fall Conference is in the books, so to speak. It was a great conference with great speakers and awesome attendees! The committee had a tenuous start- do we have it in person? Should it be virtual? Should it be both? The decision was arrived at to have it in person. We would have loved to have it livestreamed, however the logistics, timing and budget did not work in our favor. The committee worked together to create a meaningful conference aligned with our mission, “ Education=Motivation, Collaboration and Celebration!” Considering the past year, the theme United We Stand seemed appropriate. The conference was not sold out as in the past, however the attendance numbers were very good and financially the conference was solid. An electronic program was used this year to keep the days schedule close at hand, reducing our footprint and saving printing expenses. United We Stand seemed appropriate; we had cheer and dance speakers from across the country coming together to share the newest trends, as well education for coaches and athletes about techniques and team building. I was very fortunate to work with the National Dance Coaches Association in securing the most qualified speakers. Not only did they assist me with dance speakers, but they also provided contacts for cheer speakers as well. Hopefully WACPC will continue to partner with this organization as we move forward. The feedback received regarding the sessions was very positive. The keynote, Chelsea Pierotti, proved to be a highlight for the conference. She spoke about nurturing a growth mindset and coping with stress. Her presence at the conference for the weekend benefited us all. The dance speakers included Dancer Fitness owner, Katie Groven, from neighboring Minnesota. She provided examples of training exercises, specifically geared to strength training as part of injury prevention and improved performance. Lindsey Lacoco, from Illinois Southern University a renowned hip hop choreographer, coach and judge. The athletes enjoyed her workouts, as well as the choreography created for them. Lindsey Larsen, from Arizona State provided yoga classes and warm ups. To say she’s full of enthusiasm and energy is an understatement. GK Genung-Koch, the spirit coordinator from Grand Canyon University, shared her expertise in leadership development, a program she haw implemented at her campus. Mychal Fajardo from Forida, a collegiate hip hop choreographer, provided perspective as a hip hop judge as well as choreographer. Brandon Chavez from 365 Sprit enthusiastically shared cheer techniques and experiences for all. Morton Bergue who hails from California, provided much laughter and was truly inspirational. His expertise is invaluable. Many of us have had concerns regarding music patent rights and the use of artists tracks in competitive routines. Dave Sanchez, a DTU co-owner and event producer authored a paper regarding legalities for NDCA shared his legal expertise with participants. This information can also be found on the NDCA website. Wisconsin’s own Steve Solberg returned to Wisconsin, representing Infinity and spoke to athletes about getting prepared for college spirit teams. Many coaches have questions regarding performance legalities. The conference was fortunate to have Jim Lord return to Wisconsin to offer his expertise and guidance regarding the NFHS rules. This speaker list is not exhaustive, however certainly is representative of the caliber speakers we were so fortunate to have join us. It was my privilege to coordinate this conference this year; plans are underway for the 2022 Conference. Please consider joining WACPC for this inspirational and educational opportunity. The conference will be sure to align with the WACPC mission: Education = Motivation, Collaboration and Celebration! E=MC2