Name: Alyssa McDonald Team: Oceanside Pop Warner Age: 11 Hometown: Oceanside, CA Alyssa McDonald is a spunky, blue-eyed blonde with enough energy to make the Energizer® Bunny look tired. Alyssa is an out-going and popular 11-year-old girl, and she loves to talk about cheerleading. CHEER CHANNEL: What is your background in cheerleading? ALYSSA: My friend Michayla was in cheer, and I went to practices with her and really enjoyed watching the stunts, and the routines. I also liked that the cheerleaders were participating in the games and cheering on the teams. CHEER CHANNEL: What was your best cheer experience? ALYSSA: It was my first year into cheer and my team got to go to Florida to compete in the Pop Warner National Championship. We weren’t supposed to go because we came in third, but the second place team opted out not to go. We were very lucky! It was the most exciting time of my life, and we did some fantastic routines. CHEER CHANNEL: What has been your worst cheer moment? ALYSSA: I think the worst cheer moment was during a game at El Camino High School. While I was performing a stunt, the back spotter didn’t do her job, and I was dropped. I was embarrassed and angry all at the same time. CHEER CHANNEL: What is your favorite part about cheering? ALYSSA: I love gymnastics so the stunts and the dance routines are my favorite part of the cheer. CHEER CHANNEL: Why did you stop cheering? ALYSSA: I wanted to transfer from Pop Warner to California All Stars but it was way too expensive, and my family couldn’t afford it. My mom is currently looking into scholarships and grants that will help pay for my cheerleading expenses. I really miss cheerleading and want to get back into it as soon as possible. CHEER CHANNEL: What has been the best advice you have received from a coach or teammate? ALYSSA: Coach Jackie gave me advice on back hand springs and told me not to bend so much, keep my legs together and to give it all I’ve got. Her advice improved my form tremendously, and I was asked to perform in competitions after that. CHEER CHANNEL: Do you have any other hobbies outside of cheerleading? ALYSSA: I am still physically active and I love to run, swim, and of course, gymnastics. I also go to open tumbling at Gyminny Kids whenever I have a chance. CHEER CHANNEL: Do you have any advice for girls who want to get into cheerleading? ALYSSA: My advice is to always do your best and to always listen to your coaches, and practice as much as you can. Most of all have fun doing the routines!