Meet the Team
Cheer
Jason Tiede
For two decades, Jason Tiede has immersed himself in the world of cheerleading and gymnastics, transforming from a dedicated athlete into a seasoned instructor. His journey began with numerous All Star national championships and consecutive appearances in world finals, fueled by relentless hard work and unwavering dedication.Motivated by the transformative impact of perseverance, Jason transitioned to a coaching role, shaping the skills and spirits of over 1,000 All Star cheerleaders. His teams, mirroring his success, clinched national titles and secured coveted spots at Worlds and Summit multiple times. Jason's true passion lies in mentoring athletes across age groups and skill levels, both on and off the mat. Through a blend of discipline and guidance, his interactive coaching style nurtures positive, respectful, and driven young adults.Beyond coaching, Jason stands out for his choreography prowess and judging expertise. His accomplishments extend to choreographing national commercials and contributing to MTV's "Made." His influence isn't confined to national borders; he has taken his talents global, with ventures reaching the United Kingdom.In a significant move, Jason is set to bring his wealth of knowledge to the United Kingdom in the fall of 2022-2023. There, he will assume the role of Program Director for Cheer Athletics UK, and head coach of intensity Elite Cheer marking the next chapter in his remarkable career.
Pom and Lyrical
Rachael Smart
Rachael Smart stands as a multifaceted force in the world of cheer and dance, weaving a remarkable tale of dedication, skill, and leadership. With a diverse set of roles as a Business Owner, Program Director, Coach, Choreographer, and Judge, Rachael's journey is marked by an unwavering passion for the sport and an unyielding commitment to its growth.
Education:
Rachael's foundation is built on a comprehensive education, including BCQ/BGU Levels 1-4, BGU Dance, and ICU Global Coaching Technique in 2016. Her commitment to safety and well-being is evident through certifications in Safeguarding (NSPCC/HST), First Aid, Emergency Paediatric First Aid, and honed Communication Skills.
Experience:
An athlete from 2003 to 2021 in both Cheer and Dance, Rachael transitioned seamlessly into leadership roles. As the Head Coach, Director, Choreographer, and Owner of Cheerforce Ten from 2009 to 2023, she steered the team to new heights. Her tenure as Head Coach/Director of Cheerforce Odyssey (Level 5 Worlds Team) from 2015 to 2018 showcased her prowess in managing elite squads. Rachael further contributed to the global stage as the Manager and Coach of Team England Freestyle Pom from 2016 to 2019.
Internationally recognized, Rachael serves as an International Judge and Advisor since 2015. Her enduring impact is evident in her continued role as Head Coach, Director, Choreographer, and Owner at Cheer Athletics/Dance Athletics England since 2003.
Awards:
Rachael's contributions have not gone unnoticed. Recognized as the Young Professional of the Year at the Telford Business Awards in 2012, she received the Outstanding Contribution to Sport and Physical Activity accolade at the Active Lifestyle Awards in 2015/16. The Energize Awards honored her as an Inspirational Activity Leader and Coach of the Year in 2017. Notably, the BBC Midlands Coach of the Year in 2017/18 and a First Runner-Up at the BCA Coaches Conference and Awards in 2017/18 underscore her excellence.
Achievements:
Rachael's teams have earned over 1250 Regional/National titles across Cheer and Dance. As Cheerforce Ten, representing England, she achieved 8th at the ICU 2019 World Championships in the largest division to date. Multiple bids and attendance at Cheer and Dance Worlds with various teams, including a Silver Globe win in 2022 Worlds for International Open Coed Pom, highlight her commitment to excellence. The ongoing 23-24 season boasts 15 1st places, 2 Grand Champions, and recognition for Best Choreography.
Rachael Smart's career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport's growth, a beacon of inspiration for those who share her passion for cheer and dance worldwide.
Pom and Lyrical
Emily Overton
Embarking on her dance journey at the tender age of 4, Emily has etched a remarkable path through the world of dance, showcasing her passion, skill, and unwavering commitment. Born with a natural inclination for movement, she began her training in ballet, tap, and modern dance, setting the stage for a diverse and flourishing career.
Education played a pivotal role in shaping Emily's artistry. She earned accolades in her dance grades, achieving Distinction in her Advanced 2 ISTD grade in modern and tap, and Intermediate Grade in RAD Ballet. Her dance education further expanded with qualifications including BCQ Levels 1-4, ADC Pom, Jazz/Lyrical, and Hip Hop, as well as certifications from BGU Dance. Safety and well-being became integral to her dance ethos, evidenced by her training as a safeguarding-trained professional with NSPCC/HST, complemented by first aid and emergency pediatric first aid certifications. Academically, Emily excelled with GCSEs (A-C), A Levels in Performing Arts, and an HND in Dance.
Post-graduation from Addict Dance Academy in 2016, Emily seamlessly transitioned into coaching at Cheer Force Ten, where her journey began. Balancing her roles within the gym and remote coaching, she consistently sought ways to enhance her knowledge, ensuring athletes benefited optimally from their training sessions.
In the realm of dance styles, Emily's versatility knows no bounds. From Ballet, Modern, and Tap to Contemporary, Lyrical, Jazz, Hip Hop, Commercial, Ballroom, Latin, Salsa, Bollywood, Pointe Work, Partner Work, Pom, and Cheerleading—she has mastered them all.
Professional Journey:
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Athlete (2016-2023) in Cheer & Dance
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Team England Pom Athlete and Technique Coach (2018)
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Team England Jazz Athlete (2019)
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Team England Adaptive Abilities Technique Coach (2020/2021)
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Team England Adaptive Abilities Coach/Choreographer (2022)
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IASF International Open Pom Athlete and Coach (2019/2023)
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IASF International Open Lyrical Athlete and Coach (2022/2023)
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Head Coach at Cheer Force Ten (2016–2023)
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All-Star Cheer and Dance Director at Cheer Athletics (Present)
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Recreational Director at Cheer Athletics (Present)
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After School Club Coach
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Ensemble and Dance Captain at Imagine Pantomimes (2016 and 2017)
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Bollywood Dance with Award-Winning Entertainment Company - Desinach Dance & Cheer Judge
Awards and Milestones:
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Nominated as Coach of the Year at BCA Coaches Conference (2017/2018)
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Instrumental in achieving over 1000 Regional/National Titles across Cheer and Dance
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Represented England as Cheer Force Ten at the European Championships (2013)
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Achieved 8th at the ICU 2018 World Championships with Team England Pom
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Achieved 6th at the ICU 2019 World Championships with Team England Jazz
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Multiple Dance Worlds bids (including paid) with IOP, IOCP, IOL & U16 Dance
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Silver Globe Winner at the 2022 Worlds – International Open Coed Pom
Emily's coaching philosophy revolves around empowering athletes to become the best versions of themselves, both in training and on the competition floor. Her passion, dedication, and high expectations make her a beacon of inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cheer and dance.