Welcome To Badgerette Pom Pon

Updated 2/15/2010

2010 celebrates our 40th Anniversary year of pom/dance!
BADGERETTE POM PON INC.... Join the Revolution!

*** What is your Competition Purpose? ***
As your pom and dance season comes to a close, I thought I would again share this essay below. Life is about growth & changes. We all are given a huge responsibility and gift as we work with CHILDREN. it is important to step back from time to time and reflect on the very powerful impact (postive or not) that we can make in a young life....

" I had an epiphany this weekend Anne and I just had to share it with you and thank you actually. So as you know, regionals and state were these past two weekends. At regionals, we ended up getting like 7th in pom or something and 3rd in kick. We were so so sooo excited to make it to sate with kick it was ridiculous. You would have thought we made it to nationals or something. Then yesterday we competed kick and we performed kick the best we ever have. It felt so good and we were all so happy. We didn't place in the top 5 and I don't even remember what we got. But I realized that it doesn't even matter!!! We were all soo happy and just thankful we got to perform at state. And then even moreee, like looking around at some of the other teams...some of them were crying because they got second at regionals or didn't win state! I couldn't even fathom it. I realized that I think my squad acts they way they act because of Badgerette and you!!! Badgerette teaches such manners and sportsmanship and really instills the fact that winning or losing doesn't matter, it's just the performance in general. It not only showed through my squad this weekend but allll of the squads that attend camp and midwest. It was truly amazing. Michelle and I were talking about it and we both agreed. I don't even know why I felt so compelled to send this e-mail other than to just thank you! Thank you for truly teaching us all what poms and performing is all about. I am so thankful. Thank you so much! "~ love Tori Mayo, Nathan Hale HS, WI

When I entered the pom world back in the 80s, we really never talked about "good sportsmanship" or the real reason for competition. I often think how different my experience (as a student) would have been and how much more I could have gained if I knew then, what I know now. If we "won 1st place" everything was great, but back in those days, anything less seemed to mean (to a 15 yr. old) that "someone made a huge mistake" and by someone... it usually meant the judges!

After H.S., my experience "on the other side" opened my eyes to a completely different world. Instead of watching and waiting for a team "make a mistake", I realized the great things each group had to offer. I saw the inspiration and creative exchange I was missing, as a choreographer and performer , by "living in a closed box". I realized 2nd, 3rd and 4th place were also honors to be cherished. I realized that each qualified judge had a different opinion and experience level to bring to the table and that teams could actually LEARN from their comments and scores to achieve better. I also realized that you can only control yourself and your personal best (as a team) and that is the best outcome you can hope for.Now as you enter the thick of your winter competitive seasons, it is important to try and take a step back and reflect on your purpose of competing. It is also important to reflect on the role you play in molding the dancer's experience. Do you compete for experience, to gain ideas, have fun as a group, to "win", or for the challenge of the event? Do you actually watch other teams? Have you prepared your students both physically and mentally? Do you discuss sportsmanship? Most importantly, by entering the event, you are ultimately accepting the opinions of the judges (1st place or 33rd place) can you accept and promotethat concept with students and parents alike? Ultimately you are the educator...askyourself, "what responsibility do I take to shape any competitive experience into a positive one"?

If you won 2nd place last year and this year you achieve 9th, does that mean the judges don't "like your style" or you? If that were the case, then doesn't your former achievement "not count"? I believe when you get your focus back on the basics of why you are there and what your group can gain from the experience, the results are far greater and long lasting than a piece of metal. Great champions are teams that have unity, growth, support andrespect for one another and their coach. Champions care, notice and attack even the everyday practice with passion and determination. The 2 minutes you are on the performance floor does not determine the life-long lessons that can be gained on your pom/dance team.

As judges and educators, we celebrate all the brilliance you and your teams are creating on the floor. We know how hard you work and appreciate your drive and passion. I encourage you to give your team a "competitive, attitude recharge" this year. I challenge you to teachthe positve difference to your students that will carry on way beyond their H.S. dance team. Best of luck, enjoy and appreciate all of the hardworking teams this season!

~ Anne Caskey
Executive Director, Badgerette Pom Pon Inc

***** 2010 COACH ADVISORY BOARD *****
BADGERETTE is interested in what YOU have to say! This volunteer board will meet quarterly to discuss current topics, issues and new events. It's purpose is to support, promote and better the school and community teams across the Midwest region.
NEXT MEETING: March 2010! Email: pommail@badgerettepompon.com & get involved in this wonderful group!

DISNEY LEOTARDS & POMS FOR SALE:
Coaches- this is a great, economical solution for your team! These leotards and poms were only used 3X on our annual tour. They are in great condition (the set retails new at $75)!
Sold in sets ~ get a LEOTARD and set of metallic purple & silver/neon blue mix POMS for just $ 22 total!
Leotards are available in sizes Adult S-M-L
Please call 262-255-9581 for availability TODAY!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW- BADGERETTE CERTIFIED JUDGES:
* Nancy Barrock
* Marilyn Mrkvicka (re-certified)
* Stephanie Obst
* Allison Stray (re-certified)
* Nicole Szemborski
* Lauren Tetzke
* Candace Wendlick
* Renee Zitzke (re-certified)
We appreciate all who came out to expand their judging and choreography knowledge. It was a pleasure to work with you and we look forward to seeing you at future events! Great Job!!!

BADGERETTE POM PON INC. ~ HALL OF FAME
Since 1990, Badgerette has honored individuals who have made a difference and given back to the pom and dance world in a positive way. Scroll down to see some of the great individuals who have made a contribution to furthering pom/dance in their own schools and communities. Their effforts have supported the philosophy we respect and love by making a positive impact! Thank you for your commitment enjoyed by so many young people!

CONGRATULATIONS to our 2009 Badgerette Hall of Fame Inductee:
DEBRA GARDNER ~ Sault AreaH.S., Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Deb has been the coach and teacher at Sault Area High School, in the upper penninsula of the state of Michigan, for 19 years. She has given great opportunity to her students over the years by providing them a wonderful outlet to dance. She leads her students with grace, humility and gentle guidance. Deb is a great contributor at summer camp each year not only with her team, but she is interested in the growth of other teams and coaches alike. She serves as a mentor to all she has touched, always with positivity and kindness. In a time of hardship in her state and community, she makes it possible for her students to take part in poms as she believes in the great benefit of the leadership skills, confidence building and teamwork they will gain. We were thrilled to honor DEBRA GARDNER this summer at the 2009 Midwest Championships. She is a dedicated role model and we thank her!

CONGRATULATIONS to our "Lifetime"~ Badgerette Hall of Fame Inductee:
MARETA PRILL , Badgerette Founder ~ Germantown, WI
Mareta Prill created Badgerette Pom Pon Inc. in 1970, as the 1st pom and dance company in the United States! Mareta holds a B.A. in Physical Education/Science from Carthage College and an M.S. in Educational Psychology from UW. She is originally from Chicago and was a High School and College Cheerleader. At a time when only cheerleading was offered and very few, if any girls sports in Midwestern schools, Mareta saw a great need to get more young women involved in a larger team opportunity... Badgerette was created! The basis of the teaching centered around providing education in poms and dance, creating a team atmosphere and spreading positive sportsmanship, confidence and pride. These ideals are still enjoyed and cherished today! The company spread through the states of Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Missouri. Among the many creative events and competitions that have been enjoyed by thousands of pom pon girls and dancers throughout the Midwest, Mareta created wonderful events still enjoyed today: Midwest Championships, Spirit Invitational, Great America Spooktacular and Judging Certification Workshops to name just a few! Mareta retired in 2008 and continues to promote the ideals and the fun ofpoms through recreation department programs in her community. We were thrilled to honor her with the "Lifetime Achievement" induction in the Badgerette Hall of Fame at the 2009 Spirit Invitational in WI!

CONGRATULATIONS to our 2008 Badgerette Hall of Fame Inductee:
JENNY DRANA ~ Cudahy H.S. & Recreation Dept., WI
Jenny began coaching at her alma mater, Cudahy High, in the early 90's. She inspired many young women with her poise, grace, enthusiasm and example (including current coach Allison Stray-pictured). She began a wonderful tradition and standard of school spirit and involvement at CHS and stopped coaching to start her family. Currently she works with the recreation department, where she founded many programs to give opportunity to young girls in the community. She has provided numerous hours with her youth pom classes, by also mentoring graduated pom alum to give back and teach! She is a wonderful example of excellentsportsmanship and truly appreciates each team and coach she comes in contact with. Congratulations Jenny, it has been an honor and privilege to know you!

2007 ~ Kristin Warner , Brookfield Central HS Coach, WI
2006 ~ Allison Stray, Cudahy HS Coach, WI
2006 ~ Renee Zitzke, Nathan Hale HS Coach- West Allis, WI
2005 ~ Wisconsin State Fair- Bruce Sullivan, Entertainment Director
2004 ~ Susan Katon, Pinckney HS Coach, MI
2003 ~ Ginger Gray, Badgerette Staff Director- Howell, MI
2003 ~ Sharon Jeschke, Pius XI HS Coach- Milwaukee, WI
2002 ~ Linda Pfaller, West Allis Central Coach, WI
2001 ~ Anne Caskey, Badgerette Staff Director- Milwaukee, WI
2001 ~ Patty Brestrich, John Long Midddle School- Grafton, WI
2000 ~ Marilyn Mrkvicka, Washington Park HS Coach- Racine, WI
1999 ~ Laura Hutson, Badgerette Staff Director, Columbus, OH
1998 ~ Pat Premetz, Wauwatosa Esprit Coach, WI
1997 ~ Lynn Rutkiewicz, Greendale HS Coach, WI
1996 ~ Katy Sotos, St.Viator HS Coach- Arlington Heights, IL
1996 ~ Six Flags Great America Entertainment- Gurnee, IL
1995 ~ Carol Kennedy, Badgerette Staff Director- Brookfield, WI
1994 ~ Laura Vernon, Pulaski HS Coach- Milwaukee, WI
1993 ~ Polly Noskowiak, Ashwaubenon HS Coach, WI
1992 ~ Jim Hay, Janesville Parker HS Advisor, WI
1991 ~ Betsy Carr, Badgerette Staff Director- Traverse City, MI
1991 ~ Jack Nelson, AllState Insurance/WI St.Fair Sponsor, IL
1990 ~ Sue Spector, Brown Deer HS Advisor, WI
1990 ~ Meg Clark, Greendale HS Advisor, WI

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............SPORTSMANSHIP ~ RESPECT ~ DISCIPLINE...........
These three words are the basis behind the teaching methods of many successful coaches. Often times the lesson learned, and the process to achieve it, is much more critical to the teacher than any score at the end of the day! These concepts are, however, some of the toughest and hardest to instill in students today. We applaud your efforts and challenge you to keep spreading these words and ideals to your young athletes! The positive benefits will last far past the dance floor in their High School pom experience. These are the mantras of true champions!

The following is a sample of what some of the dedicated coaches throughout the Midwest shared with us at Summer Camp:

I coach because it is so fulfilling to see dancers learn to love something I am so passionate about. I also cherish and learn something everyday from each of them! ~ Jenna Smithart, Onalaska Varsity, WI

I strive to be a good leader and teach my squad to bond as a team and learn good technique . ~ Michelle Scherer, West Allis Nathan Hale, WI

My wish for the Seniors is that they leave an impression, a good example for the other girls. Enjoy every moment and file it away in your memory box! ~ Kristen Melland, Eau Claire North, WI

I love seeing each girl out there practicing and realizing their ability to do something for the first time... the smile and excitement is irreplacable! ~ Emily Behnke, Menasha, WI

They are constantly looking at other teams for inspiration and using their positive influences to build confidence in their own performances. ~ Julie Tellier , Wauwatosa East, WI

My proudest moment was watching them come together as one team, with one dream! They believed in themselves and realized that when they work hard together, they can do anything! ~ Karyn Crivello, Pius XI, WI

My goal is to delegate! I like to transfer more responsibility to the captains and work on squad unity always, blending old and new! ~ Sarah Breitlow, West Allis Central, WI

My proudest moment at camp was when my team performed Open and they felt the energy and love from each other. They came off the floor and weer SOOOOO excited with their performance! ~ Amy Pieper, Eau Claire North, WI

My goals for the team are to grow as a squad, discover their talent and gain better work ethics. ~ Yelena Janis, Wauwatosa Esprit Juniors, WI

I love when one of my dancers finally gets a move that they have been working on so hard and then they come up to tell me. The look on their face is priceless and never gets old! I love passing down my passion of dance to the girls. ~ Stephany Karst, Eau Claire Danz Kraze, WI

My proudest moment at camp was the team drive, dedication, passion and INDEPENDENCE- you want it for yourselves, I don't just want it for you! ~ Kristin Warner, Brookfield Central, WI

I try to remain as patient as possible, bbut still let them know when they need to be serious and work hard. I want to have a lot of responsibility, but yet allow the captains and other members to be responsible for little things so they can learn leadership too! ~ Jenna Franklin, Germantown Power Poms, WI

The girls blew us away and surpassed all of our expectations! We knew it was in them somewhere and during Open it came out! ~ Carissa Fenn & Meg Samuels, Madison Memorial, WI

This group of girls have dedicatedd themselves to setting a new standard of excellence for CMH! We believe that success is an attitude, and we are working to get ours right! ~ Jenna Boll, Catholic Memorial Varsity, WI

I'm proud of their performances, showmanship, energy and hardwork. They have really impressed me with their maturity and have already grown so much throughout this summer. ~ Taylor Mikkalson, Waukesha West Varsity, WI

We are proud they gave their best performance of the summer (OPEN). They have improved their energy and been soo respectful of each other in and out of instruction at camp! ~ Kathy Budzien & Becky Kusch, Arrowhead, WI

This is a great group of girls. I hope they respect their captains and work towards teamwork. I use a positive approach when coaching. ~ Rachel Troyer, Muskego, WI

We are so proud seeing them gather emotions about dance. The girls went to sleep every night with a smile after a hard day of work. They moved from the back of the line to the front by the end of they week and were amazed that they were treated so wonderfully! ~ Chriss Mayville & Jodi Backus, Greenwood, WI

I felt chills watching the JV perform with such energy and confidence during their Open! They have bonded as a team and think of each other first! ~ Kristin Radomski, Catholic Memorial JV, WI

I love showing the girls what they are truly capable of and seeing the smiles on their face when they feel accomplished. ~ Lindsay Bliemeister, Germantown, WI

I strive to set the tone for good sportsmanship and educate both students and parents on what is acceptable. I want my students to appreciate and notice other teams. It is important to have a starting point and set expectations! ~ Alllison Stray, Cudahy, WI

I hope the Seniors will never forget how much fun they've had on this team & how you'll never live these moments again! ~ Brittany Rumphol, Oshkosh West, WI

We are proud and blessed to have a squad who are genuinely bonding as a team and sincerely care about each other. There is a positive attitude sweeping through the squad and those pleasant memories will last forever! Kelli Kwiatkowski & Jennifer Toth, Brookfield East, WI

SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT PICTURES APPEARING ON THE BADGERETTE WEB SITE ~ If you are downloading pictures that are appearing on the site please identify with "Courtesy of Badgerette". If you see the © next to a picture you must write and ask for permission to print on your web site. Thank you.

Getting involved in a service project helps not only the recipients but makes our team members more aware of the needs of others. ADOPT A CLASSROOM is great!!! Click on the logo to find out more about ADOPT A CLASSROOM.

Commitment is emotional intent backed up by action.
Commitment isn't something you pledge, it's something you do.When they are there beside you, doing all the right things at the right time in the rightway, their commitment will be obvious to you.

Anthea Paul, Australian Author

Coach's Corner