CHEER ABILITIES TEAM
A Supportive Cheer Experience for Every Ability Level
Sparklers is Dakota Spirit’s Cheer Abilities team—an inclusive program designed for athletes with disabilities to experience the joy of competitive cheerleading. Through thoughtfully adapted skills, routines, and performances, athletes build confidence, friendships, and a strong sense of belonging in a supportive, encouraging environment. Every athlete is celebrated, supported, and given the opportunity to shine in their own way.
Program Overview
Dakota Spirit’s Sparklers Cheer Abilities Team offers an inclusive cheer experience that meets athletes where they are. This program is designed to integrate athletes with disabilities into the sport of competitive cheerleading through modified stunts, simplified tumbling skills—such as cartwheels and rolls—and flexible routine structures.
Practices focus on skill development, teamwork, and confidence-building in a positive, supportive setting. Athletes have the opportunity to perform at select events throughout the season, with accommodations made to ensure each athlete feels comfortable and supported. Participation is always adapted to individual needs, and performance expectations are flexible to prioritize a positive experience for every athlete.
Inclusive competitive cheer program for athletes with disabilities
Modified skills and routines tailored to individual abilities
Performances at key Dakota Spirit events without a full-year commitment
Focus on confidence, friendships, and belonging
Cheer Abilities Team Information
Each team is designed to match age, ability, and experience—so every athlete can shine.
| Team Name | Level | Ages | First Day | Practice Day | Practice Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sparklers | Half-Season Cheer Abilities | All Ages + Abilites | Jan. 9, 2026 | Fridays | 5 - 6:15 pm |
Season Information
Season Duration: Jan. 2026 – April 2026
Registration Opens: Nov. 1, 2025
Season Begins: Jan. 9, 2026
Parent/Athlete Meeting: At First Practice
Practice Day/Time: Fridays from 5 - 6:25 pm
Performances: 3 Performances
Valentine’s Classic - Feb. 1, 2026, Sanford Pentagon
Unified Games - March 23, 2026, Roosevelt High School
Spiritfest - April 9, 2026, Sanford Pentagon
Tuition & Fees
Dakota Spirit works diligently to keep the sport of cheerleading accessible. This is done in many ways. We understand that you will want clarity about the financial commitment involved and have provided details about the costs accordingly. If you have concerns about costs, please reach out.
| Tuition or Fee | Cost | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Full Tuition | $250/year | Jan. 9 |
| Uniform | $50 | Jan. 11 |
Tuition
Cheer Abilities Team costs—including tuition, competition fees, choreography, and music—are collected in full at the beginning of the season.
Practice & Attendance
Consistent participation is essential to the success of every Dakota Spirit team. All practices are encouraged, and athletes are expected to arrive prepared, focused, and in the proper practice attire. Missing practices may impact an athlete’s role or choreography within the routine.
Season Schedule
The Cheer Abilities Team practices once per week from January to April, meeting on Fridays from 5 - 6:15 pm.
Practice Uniform
Athletes are encouraged to wear a comfortable top paired with black shorts or leggings to practice.
Absence Policy
Families are encouraged to schedule vacations during school breaks or gym closures when possible.
We understand that unexpected situations—such as injury, illness, or family emergencies—may arise. When they do, we will work with families to find the best solution. Please communicate any potential conflicts as early as possible so we can adjust accordingly.
Gym Closures
Wondering when the gym will be closed? Visit our Gym Closures page for a full list of holiday breaks and planned downtime—perfect for family trips or much-needed rest days.
Communication & Support
Staying informed is essential to a smooth season. Parents are responsible for keeping up with all team and gym updates, so please check BAND, GoMotion, and your email regularly — we use all three throughout the year to share important information. If you ever have an urgent question or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out directly. We’re here to help every step of the way!
Billing/Registration
Office Director
Lesley Good
lesleygoodds@gmail.com
Office Contact
info@dakotaspirit.com
605-373-0414
Team Info, Practices & Coaches
Email info@dakotaspirit.com for coach contact details.
Classes & Lessons
Tumbling Director
Triana McCloud
triana.mccloud@dakotaspirit.com
Athlete Well-Being
Program Director
Joanna Naatjes
joanna.naatjes@dakotaspirit.com
Gym Owner
Robin Fritsch
robin.fritsch@dakotaspirit.com
Get Ready for the Season?
To keep the season running smoothly, families are encouraged to stay organized and connected. Make sure all required forms are completed, your GoMotion account is up to date, and you’ve joined your team’s BAND group for updates.
You’ll also receive reminders for uniform orders, hotel bookings, volunteer sign-ups, and USASF membership steps throughout the year. Customize your BAND notifications, sync your calendar, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to other families—our community thrives on teamwork and communication.
Above all, be early, be gracious, and be flexible as we work together to make this a fun and rewarding season for every athlete.
Checklist
Don’t worry — we’ll guide you through each step.
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Complete & submit forms:
Best Practices for a Great Season:
Customize your BAND app notifications and alerts.
Use your full name and a clear profile photo in BAND.
Subscribe and sync to program and team calendars in BAND.
Review your GoMotion account for accuracy.
Introduce yourself to fellow parents and athletes .
Be early, be positive, and be flexible!
Respond promptly to polls and surveys.
Book travel and hotel accommodations early.
More Than Cheer. It’s Character.
Dakota Spirit’s mission is to promote the physical, mental, and Christian development of youth through cheerleading. Our Christ-centered culture sets the foundation for teamwork, humility, and confidence on and off the mat.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Join a Cheer Abilities Team!
Build your skills, grow your spirit, and get ready to shine on the mat. Secure your spot for the season today!