By Kiara Doyal
The Seattle Medium
For Daaoshara Galbert, cheer director of TAC City Bolts/WA United, cheerleading is about more than game-day performances, routines and uniforms. It’s about building confidence, creating opportunities and giving young girls a place where they feel supported, valued and empowered to succeed.
“My passion for youth sports and community development is what inspired me to take on the role of Cheer Director. I’ve always believed that children need positive environments where they feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to become their best selves,” said Galbert. “I wanted to help create a program where every athlete feels valued, regardless of their background, experience, or circumstances.”
Through her involvement with youth cheer programs, including the NW Grizzlies, Galbert has gained valuable leadership experience in coaching, fundraising, parent engagement and program development. But for her, the greatest reward comes from watching young athletes grow in confidence and discover their potential.
“Seeing a child who started the season shy or unsure of herself eventually step onto the field with confidence is one of the most rewarding feelings. I love watching the friendships they build, the excitement they have when they accomplish something new, and the pride they feel when their hard work pays off,” said Galbert. “Some of these girls may not realize it now, but the relationships, memories, and lessons they’re developing will stay with them for years. Knowing I get to play even a small part in that means everything to me.”
That growth is central to Galbert’s approach to coaching. Beyond teaching routines and preparing athletes for performances, she hopes to instill values that will help them navigate challenges and pursue their goals long after their cheerleading days are over.
“I want every girl who comes through our program to understand that her circumstances do not determine her future and that she is capable of accomplishing anything she puts her mind to. I teach our athletes the importance of accountability, teamwork, leadership, and supporting one another,” said Galbert. “I also want them to understand that mistakes don’t define them and that setbacks are opportunities to grow. Long after they stop cheering, I hope they remember that they had people who believed in them, pushed them to do better, and reminded them of their worth.”
For Galbert, those lessons reflect the broader role youth sports can play in a child’s life, particularly for young people who benefit from positive mentorship, structure and a sense of belonging.
“Youth sports provide children with structure, positive mentorship, healthy relationships, and a sense of belonging. For some children, sports are more than an extracurricular activity; they’re an outlet and a safe space where they can temporarily escape challenges they may be facing outside the program,” said Galbert. “Football and cheer teach young athletes how to work toward goals, handle disappointment, communicate effectively, respect authority, and work with people who may be different from them. They also learn that success requires consistency, dedication, and teamwork. I believe investing in youth sports is one of the most powerful ways we can invest in the future of our communities.”
While Galbert works to create those opportunities for young athletes, she recognizes that a successful youth sports program requires support beyond the coaching staff. Parents, volunteers, sponsors and community members all play a role in making sure children have the resources and encouragement they need to participate.
“I always say that when you invest in children, you’re investing in the future. Youth sports programs cannot thrive without the dedication of parents, volunteers, coaches, sponsors, and community members who believe in the mission. I’ve seen firsthand how much work goes into keeping a program running, from organizing practices and transportation to fundraising and making sure athletes have what they need to participate,” said Galbert. “Every contribution matters, whether it’s financial support, volunteering a few hours, mentoring an athlete, or simply showing up to encourage them. To anyone considering getting involved, I would say do it. You may think you’re only giving a few hours of your time, but you could be making a difference in a child’s life that lasts forever.”
