VYPE: What do you enjoy most about being a “cheer Mom”?
Collette McClure: What an awesome role to have! As a cheer mom, the most rewarding part is watching your child grow in skill, confidence, and teamwork. There’s something special about seeing them light up when they hit a new stunt and seeing how proud they are when they perform. And of course, being part of the cheer family—getting to know the other parents and cheering on the whole squad—really adds to the experience.
VYPE: What inspired you to go above and beyond for the Idabel Cheer program?
CM: When it comes to going above and beyond for a cheer program like Idabel’s, it’s all about the dedication and pride that comes from seeing the team grow and succeed. There’s something powerful about investing in young athletes—knowing that your support, whether it’s helping at events, fundraising, or just being there for each performance, can make a lasting impact. Parental support is a huge part of what makes any program successful, not just cheer. Parental support is a vital part of a successful school community. I immediately connected with our cheer sponsor Princess Johns and let her know I was willing to help in any way I could. She has big ideas for the future of the Idabel Cheer program, and it takes a lot of support to see those ideas come to light.
VYPE: Can you tell us a bit about your involvement in the program and how you first got started?
CM: I have been involved in other school cheer and private dance programs for years in Texas. This is my first year supporting the Idabel Cheer Program and I have been so impressed with the amount of material each girl has to learn when it comes to the number of dances and cheers. They always look so put together and professional on the field.
VYPE: What is one of your favorite memories as a cheer mom?
CM: My favorite memory as a cheer mom so far is when my daughter Katie called me from OU cheer camp to tell me she made All American. She had spent many hours in the gym preparing for that and I was so proud that she met her goal.
VYPE: What does being an involved parent mean to you?
CM: Being an involved parent means doing the things that need to be done without question and showing up and being present for our children. Our cheer sponsors put in really long hours and this role takes a lot of time away from their families to support our girls. If there is something that we can do to make their jobs easier and take a little bit off their plate, than I will help where I can. Be supportive and positive!
VYPE: What would you say is your greatest achievement or contribution to the program so far?
CM: I have helped in a number of ways, from making flyers and banners, to setting up tents and tables during fundraisers, helping organize cheer camp and designing custom door decorations for the cheerleaders when they attended OU cheer camp this summer. This year we wanted to move more to a digital platform to keep things organized and I designed and managed the website for the cheer team for mini cheer camp sign ups and “cheer chix“ sign-ups.
VYPE: Are there other moms or people that help you in this endeavor?
CM: Idabel is so blessed with many amazing parents that are willing to share their time and support the cheer team. What I love is that nobody has ever declined to help when asked. Communication has played such a vital role in keeping this group of girls together and you couldn’t ask for a better group of moms and dads!
