What It Takes to Learn That Skill
They told Taffie and Myra they needed to learn a back walkover if they wanted to make the team.
That’s the moment you stop thinking about “could I?” and start asking “how do I?” It’s not about talent, it’s about showing up. It’s about shaking off the doubts, and putting in the work!
Hey. Are you ready to open the next cheer chapter?
I’m Allison Sack — over twenty years in the cheerleading world, author on the side, and completely wrapped in the quirks and magic of building skills that scare you a little. No fluff. Real talk. Useful tips. All of the sweat, the fear, the wins, the fails. Whether you’re doing the laundry, driving, or just surviving your day, this one’s for you. Grab your coffee (or jug of water) and let’s turn the next page.
Today, we’re peeking into Book Two in the Little Cheer Library — I Want That Skill. This story isn’t just made up from thin air. It’s built from real moments, from seeing kids freeze in fear, from seeing others push through. It’s built from the belief that “there’s no such word as can’t.”
Why It Takes More Than Just Wanting
Wanting is easy. Commitment is harder.
Here are the things I’ve learned over the years about what it takes to really learn something like a back walkover — or any scary new skill.
- Consistency: Practising just once a week won’t cut it. You’ve got to show up with intention often. Even short drills daily make a difference.
- Small pieces first: Bridges. Handstands. Kickovers. Shoulder mobility. If these aren’t solid, the full skill will not be strong. Break it down. Master each segment. Don’t rush forward until your foundation is strong.
- Mindset and patience: Doubts will come. The thing is — improving skill isn’t linear. You’ll feel stuck sometimes. That means progress is happening, even if you can’t see it yet.
- Support & feedback: A coach who sees you, spots you. Someone who can say, “Your hips aren’t opened enough,” or “Your shoulders need more stretch.” It matters. You don’t thrive in silence. Take it on and make the corrections.
- Real rest & recovery: Flexibility work, rest days, care for joints, mental breaks. Without recovery, you burn out or stall.
Meet I Want That Skill
Once upon a time, in the city of Pearlsville, there were twin girls named Myra and Taffie. They were six years old,
full of energy, and sometimes a bit sassy, much to their mum’s amusement.
They had recently joined the Mini Meerkats, a novice cheerleading team (which means entry-level) at the Zoo Elite All-Stars. Both girls couldn’t wait to join cheerleading; they were eager to learn new skills and feel the rush of performing on the big cheer stage.
At the gym one day, the girls watched the Mini Monkeys with big open mouths! A fully competitive national level 1 team was practising their tumble section. Their cousin Eric was part of this impressive team, and it was his encouragement that sparked Myra and Taffie’s interest in the sport. After checking out the team’s incredible skills, the girls were inspired to join the Mini Monkeys. However, much to their disappointment, Eric explained that they would need to learn a back walkover to make the team. “I want that skill,” said Taffie. “Me too,” chimed Myra.
Motivated by the challenge, Myra and Taffie asked their mum to confirm with the coach, and it turned out to be true! Determined to join Eric, they set their sights on mastering the skill by the end of the season.
Armed with their tumble lessons and homework drills, the girls were ready to work!
As Myra arrived home from school, she was bursting with energy and ready to practice her cheer skills. Excitedly, she asked her sister Taffie if she wanted to join her. But Taffie replied that she was too tired. Undeterred, Myra headed outside and began practising her handstand drills under the warm afternoon sun.
If you liked this sneak peek, want to see what happens next, or want to know how I built this story from the things I heard and saw — then I Want That Skill is waiting for you. Check it out at the cheerleaderbookclub.com.
Thanks for sticking with me till the end of this chapter. I hope you found something helpful — maybe belief, maybe motivation — or at the very least a smile. Want more? Grab a book or a freebie from the site. Hit me up on socials @thecheerleaderbookclub. Got something wild you want me to talk about? Send it through. No, seriously.
I appreciate you. And I can’t wait to turn the next cheer chapter with you.
Allison xx
I Want That Skill!
I Want That Skill! – Join twins Myra and Taffie as they tumble, stretch, and giggle their way toward mastering a tricky new cheerleading skill! This interactive picture book lets kids personalise the story, colour the illustrations, and access bonus activities through The Secret Book Club. A fun, inspiring tale about determination, teamwork, and celebrating every step of the journey!
