Oh Chris, I am soooooooooo sorry. I can truly say I know how you feel. And like everything else in life, this can and will happen. Only your TRUE friends will continue to be your friends. I only hope you use this as an example of how NOT to behave in the future.

Please know that they are just hurt and angry that you left. They feel like you betrayed the "family." And even though you didn't and you did this for yourself, they can't and won't see it that way. Only time will tell if they decide to grow up or not. The only thing I can say is this.... post something NON NEGATIVE on your Myspace, explaining your reasons for leaving and how you feel so lost without the support of your "family." Some will ignore it, some will think about it and some may speak to you again. The ones that are outwardly negative towards you are NOT your friends and you should NOT speak to them. Just do not respond at all. If you argue with a fool, some people cannot tell the difference between the two. Don't be a fool as well. They will be in a situation themselves in the future and will be the kind to just burn bridges.

Make an effort to talk to the people who still support you and when you've explained your side, let it go. Don't continue to feel hurt and express your hurt. Let them see how well you are doing and this will get passed along as well. Those who do decide to grow up over time will look to you as an example of how TO behave and you have succeeded.

Yes, you will feel hurt and yes it will be there for quite some time, but these people aren't going to pay your way into college nor are they going to support you when it comes time to make that decision. Why should they decide what gym you go to now? Never let others tell you what is right for you. This is where you get to grow yourself. Just make sure it's in to someone you will be proud of later.

Good for you!

It sounds like you have totally weighed out your options for the new season. You obviously made a logical decision and didn't make your decision in haste. You did what is best for YOU. And honestly what is wrong in that?

Your previous coaches and teammates should still be proud of your accomplishments whether the accomplishments are made in one gym or another. Yes, human nature does react strangely to someone walking out the door. However, it's just a matter of time before your true friends will call you again, and ask "How you are doing?" The others, that were really never your friends, won't call you and THAT'S OKAY! Just let it go!

I am going to assume that your are getting close to the magic age of 18. This is the one big change to join a gym that has a shot for worlds. If this is correct, then you go and get that chance to go to worlds. It's a goal that many cheerleaders have for themselves. And hey, if your previous gym staff cannot be happy for that goal, then I am sorry that you were with that gym in the first place.

The gym I am connected with has always greeted our past teammates with warm hellos and hugs. Our cheerleaders have remained in contact with each other and sure have fun watching their ex-teammates perform on the floor. Oh, and they sure do have a ton of fun taking MySpace pictures with each other. So, you see, change can be positive, if you start with a gym that is "Healthly" in all aspects of life.

GOSH, everyday that goes by, I am that much happier to be affliated with my daughter's choice of gyms.

Xtothefunk - chin up and work hard in your new gym. Prove to your new coaches why your past coaches find it so difficult to handle you departure...show your new coaches your talents on and off the floor.

Good luck to you!

Good for you, Its always tough when you leave a team that you have been with for so long. Congrats on your new team, and have fun, your only young once. We will all be watching and cheering you on this season. You'll have to let us know where you went!! Cant wait to see those AMAZING jumps! hehe

As I always say go with what you know. First and foremost it's all about you then the gym and friends. I can completley understand and think you may the right decision based on what you want out of cheer.

hey guys!  i just wanted to let everyone know that i just had my very first practice with my new gym, and my new coaches are crazy.  i love it!  i am so excited for the new year.

see everyone around!! 

LATER

Glad to hear you are happy.  There are many of us that have switched gyms for various reasons, and we know it is never easy.  The tough part will definately be when comp season starts.  Hopefully everyone is mature enough to handle it.

missin you.

We made a gym change this season too.  It was very hard for us to do, but I do think we have made the right choice.  Our first gym will ALWAYS have a special place in our hearts. I cried the day I packed up the old uniforms, practice gear, and took my team sticker off my car!  LOL   I will always be greatful for the great group of people there.  Yes, we have felt some of the back-lash, had some people talk about us... but our true friends are just that.... TRUE FRIENDS!!  We will cheer for our old team everytime we see them and hope that they will do the same for us.  This will be my daughters 4th season, but she is only 6... so as far as her and her little friends... its just another uniform... what is under it is still the same at the end of the day!! 

Chris,
I was in the exact same situation as you! i know how you feel and you aren't doing anything wrong! I hope that you are enjoying your new team!