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MEET THE COACHES
CMA is directed by Programme Directors Philippa Jennings and Melissa Thoms. They have a combined 25 years of coaching experience and could not be prouder of their ever-growing CMA Family. You can read more about all of our staff below.
OUR COACHING STAFF
PHILIPPA JENNINGS
Gym Owner and Programme Director
Philippa is a qualified Dance Teacher and Cheer Coach Levels 1-3.
Years involved in Cheerleading
14
Proudest Coaching Moment
When one of our first ever athletes competed at the World Championships and thanked me for helping her find her passion.
Favourite thing about Cheerleading
Watching athletes grow in confidence and gain skills they never knew they were capable of.
MELISSA THOMS
Programme Director
Melissa is a qualified Cheer Coach Levels 1-7, Cheer and Dance Judge and Certified IASF Safety Official.
Years involved in Cheerleading
10
Proudest Coaching Moment
When two CMA Athletes were awarded Leader for Life awards at Nationals and the entire arena gave them a standing ovation.
Favourite thing about Cheerleading
That it is so much more than a sport: it creates strong, confident athletes due to its inclusiveness and the support you get from being a part of a team.
MEGAN ALLSOP
Coach
Megan is a qualified Cheer Coach Levels 1-3.
Years involved in Cheerleading
9
Proudest Coaching Moment
When one of the teams I coached hit a zero deduction routine and came 1st out of 9 teams.
GEORGIA GAMBLES-SHELDON
Coach
Georgia is a qualified Cheer Coach Levels 1-3.
Years involved in Cheerleading
6
Proudest Coaching Moment
When one of the teams I coached last season hit their best ever routine at Nationals.
KATIE HOLLAND
Coach
Katie is a qualified Cheer Coach Levels 1&2.
Years involved in Cheerleading
7
Proudest Coaching Moment
Watching a team of new athletes compete at a big competition for the first time.
SUPPORT STAFF
CATHY VARLEY
Safeguarding Officer
Cathy ensures that the safety and wellbeing of our athletes is at the core of our practice. Cathy is available to meet with our staff, our athletes and their families to provide support and intervention should they have any concerns or difficulties.
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Cathy is Team Support Manager for:
Little Gems (Tiny Novice)
Rubies (Youth 2)
Ladies of Steel (International Open 4)
SALLY WESTNEDGE
Programme Support Officer
Sally offers support and advice to our staff, athletes and their families. If you have a question regarding training, competitions or general information, Sally is on hand to provide you with the answers!
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Sally is Team Support Manager for:
Little Gems (Tiny Novice)
Opal Princesses (Mini Prep 1)
Chrome (Youth 1)
Rose Gold (Senior 2)
Crystal Queens (International Junior 3)
PRE-QUALIFIED COACHES AND ASSISTANT COACHES
Athletes within the CMA Leadership Programme