Being a cheerleader takes more than high energy and a strong spirit. It takes dedication, skill, practice and good coaching. Michelle Gillespie, of Midlothian, VA., is doing her part to make that last one a reality for the girls she coaches. That is one reason why she is the first cheerleading coach on weplay to win the weekly honors.

http://www.weplay.com/users/Magdag

Now in her fifth year as a cheer coach of the Woolridge Wildcats Juniors Cheer, Michelle says the team keeps getting better each year. She first got involved as a way to connect with her daughter, Kenzie, who is now 10 years old. Cheerleading is something they can do together and remain close.

http://www.weplay.com/groups/1662-Woolridge-Wildcats-Juniors-Cheer

In addition to coach, Michelle is also the Cheer Director for their Association. She admits it keeps her quite busy, but she can't stop coaching because she enjoys it too much. She also has two sons, Dylan is 12 and Dalton is five years old. They come to the games to support their mother and sister and Dylan has even begun to play football now as well.

"The key to a successful squad is the parents," Michelle says. "If you don't have their support on the field and at home it just won't work. But the most important thing is to have LOTS OF FUN:-) I hope to create wonderful memories for my cheerleaders."

Her primary goal as team coach is to create an experience that is meaningful and positive for her kids.

"I hope they can look back and say how much fun they had... GO WILDCATS!"

To nominate a coach, send an email to nominate@weplay.com with link to his or her profile. Check back each week to meet the outstanding coaches on weplay.