Katy's Texans Cheerleader

Katy, TX (October 24, 2016)

Cinco Ranch graduate, Brianna Garcia, shares her dream and journey to cheer for the big leagues.

Written by Debbie McDaniel | Select photography courtesy of See What Develops

As a child, Brianna grew up watching the Texans play football and remembers the anticipation of going to the stadium with her dad every season. Brianna was starstruck by the cheerleaders and couldn’t wait to be one of them. “Ever since I was little, I would tell him, ‘I can’t wait to try out for the Houston Texans Cheerleaders as soon as I turn 18!’” Her dad, Joey Yadi Garcia, has been a season ticket holder since day one, when the team first took the field as the Houston Texans. When Brianna heard her name called as one of the Texans Cheerleaders, she felt a rush of adrenaline like she had never felt before.

Dancing Through Life
Texans Cheerleader started dancing when she was just 3 years old. Becky’s Academy of Dance became her dance home, up until high school when she danced her way to the Cougar Stars dance team at Cinco Ranch High School, and served as social officer and spirit coordinator. Brianna says she couldn’t have done it without her family, “My parents, family, and friends have all been such amazing supporters.”

Intense Training
Getting ready to try out for the Houston Texans Cheerleaders requires great commitment and hard work. “I started preparing months before tryouts by changing my diet and working out.” Brianna trained under the guidance of personal trainer Alexis and worked out almost every day. In addition to these workouts, she took weekly dance classes designed specically for pro sports. “Because I was so passionate, it really helped me enjoy each step of the process, even though it was challenging.”

That Magic Moment
Brianna shares that when the names were called, she felt a rush of adrenaline and huge relief. “It was a feeling I can’t explain. It is denitely a moment I will never forget.” Brianna’s devotion and desire to reach for her dreams is an inspiring reminder – hard work and determination really do pay off. “Trying out for the team is a huge commitment and just like anything else, you have to be willing to put in all of your eort to see the results you aspire to achieve.”

Representing the Texans
One thing she enjoys most about being a Texans Cheerleader is the ability to support the community and represent the Texans team. “Coming out to the events that the Houston Texans sponsor has been such an amazing experience, I love interacting with the community and fans!” The cheerleaders are often each other’s biggest fans, “We are all very supportive of each other.” One of the biggest challenges for Brianna is staying in good physical condition. “Staying away from sweets and cutting back on going out to eat is a struggle,” she laughs. She admits that she loves sweet treats like cheesecake, ice cream, and crepes, and loves to try different foods from new restaurants.

Follow Your Passion
Brianna says she is blessed to have attended such great Katy ISD schools and have the relationships she has built in the Katy area. “Growing up in Katy has been such a joy! Katy reminds me of one giant family. Everyone is so friendly to those around them; supporting each other throughout the community in both difficult and happy times.” Her advice to Katy ISD cheerleaders and aspiring dancers is simple. “Always do what you love and are passionate about. Having passion in what you do in life will always show and get you further than you ever thought possible. Do what you love with condence and spirit.” KM

DEBBIE MCDANIEL is a cheer mom to 9-year-old Gracie, who loves to jump, dance, and practice stunts on the furniture.