Welcome to River City Stars, Inc. the ONLY special needs cheerleading program in Central Virginia!!!
We build confidence, teach teamwork, and provide opportunities for lifelong friendships. Participants improve motor skills, build core strength, and improve balance and endurance all while having fun!!
Our team has been a huge success and provides members with an opportunity never before offered! They perform a 2 ½ minute routine that includes jumps, stunts, dance, tumbling, and a pyramid!!! Cheerleading is an empowering activity, and the cheerleading world is one of the most supportive and encouraging environments for this type of program. In previous years, our team received a standing ovation at each competition!
Cheerleading not only provides an opportunity for fun but also for real work on participants’ abilities, including gross and fine motor skills, balance, core strength and endurance, and the results are often noticeable.
For example, Haley, who has cheered for several years, has always avoided forward rolls out of concern over weakness in her hand and foot. We spent all summer working on conditioning and building strength in that arm, convincing her it was useable. She is now doing forward rolls and holding stunts with that hand. This is a huge accomplishment for her; to get over her fear and realize she could use that hand and arm!
Our coaches are chosen because of their desire to be a part of this program. They demonstrate a passion for helping others and cheerleading. The relationships built between athletes and coaches are ones that will positively impact and change lives forever.
Our program includes one practice a week, five competitions, and some special appearances at various events throughout Richmond. This year we have performed at regional high school cheer competitions, the Step Up for Down Syndrome Family Festival and at a VCU women’s basketball game! We practice at Gym Quest gymnastics which is located in Lakeside.
Our team does not have an age limit, or any physical requirements, we will work with anyone at their level to achieve team and individual goals!
We are a non-profit corporation and have raised over $4000 this year to help keep costs low for participants. If you are interested in joining our program please call or email Elizabeth Rafferty (804-304-3492) or [email protected] ). Follow us on Facebook too!