AKD is Official Sponsor of Miss Grand Prix of Houston

Angela King Designs is a proud sponsor of the 2013 Miss Grand Prix of Houston. The official contest will take place October 4-6 at Reliant Park, with preliminaries held in the months prior. 

Visit the Miss Grand Prix Facebook Page

In addition to a prize package valued at $10,000, the 2013 winner will receive two items from the soon-to-be-released AKD Racewear Collection as modeled here by 2012 Miss Grand Prix of Houston Angela Anderson. 

As the premier designer in sports entertainment costuming since 1989, Angela King Designs is a natural fit for race day models and themewear.  

Good luck to the contestants, we'll see you at the racetrack! 

Visit Miss Grand Prix of Houston Website

See Sporty Theme Costumes

Contact AKD for Racewear Information

AKD Style Pro Sandy Charboneau Choreographs at P-R-O 2013

Original Article at www.UltimateCheerleaders.com

Kudos to Style Pro Sandy Charboneau, recently featured during her guest choreographer appearance at the P-R-O Convention in Atlanta June 22-23. 

Sandy is shown here with some of her many cheerleaders who have taken part in Sandy's ProTour Productions appearances. The ladies tour overseas and stateside to support the U.S. military. 

See other photos of AKD at the P-R-O Convention

Learn more about Style Pro Sandy Charboneau 

Meet other AKD Style Pros

AKD Represents at Atlanta's Annual P-R-O Convention

From June 22-23, Angela King Designs joined hundreds of professional performers from across the nation at the annual P-R-O Convention in Atlanta. Here are some highlights from that fun weekend! Thank you to everyone for stopping by the AKD booth. If we missed you, please message us here to discuss your uniform needs!

AKD Style Pro Sandy Charboneau with ProTour Productions rep Keiko

Style Pro Sandy Charboneau appeared as one of the talented choreographers instructing a pro level routine at the event. Click here to see behind the scenes of Sandy's day at the P-R-O Convention!

AKD Sports Model Search National Top 10 Caitlyn of the Houston Texans Cheerleaders

AKD Sports Model Search National Top 10 Denita of the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders

St. Louis Rams Cheerleaders in AKD collar tops

Kennesaw State University dancers in AKD uniform tops

Customers Tennessee State University dancers

Gotham City Cheerleaders in new AKD practice tops

Gotham City Cheerleaders and Ref Squad in AKD uniforms!

Alexa's Blog - My Year as the Face of AKD, #2

Hey everyone, I hope you’re enjoying your summer… a lot has happened since my first post! Back in May, I was rounding out my season with the New Orleans Hornets Honeybees (now Pelicans) and graduating from Tulane! It only gets better from there... 

I am unbelievably excited to reveal that I am a new member of the 2013-14 Brooklynettes! I can’t wait to share my journey with you. While the audition process certainly pushed me to my limits, every second was absolutely worth it.

When I was surrounded by over 300 dancers on the morning of June 15, the idea of being a Brooklynette seemed light-years away. After learning an across the floor combination and an intricate routine to Beyoncé’s “Grown Woman” (which included a vogue death drop!), I survived three cuts and made it to the next day of auditions. Here’s a picture of me about to hit the floor!

The next day, 39 hopefuls and I were introduced to the 10 returning Brooklynettes. As they strutted into the gym dressed in coordinated camouflage outfits, we knew these women meant business! Brooklyn-born choreographer Rhapsody taught us a routine to “Grind or Die” by Eve. We only had one chance to perform it for the judges, so it was go hard… or go home! Thankfully I was one of the 32 finalists to make it to training camp, but I knew my work was far from over.

Training camp required finalists to participate in a quick interview, learn a short athletic routine and clean Rhapsody’s dance to perform at finals. I exceeded my expectations when it came to the athletic routine; I never thought I would be able to do the tricks they threw at us! As training camp came to an end, I felt the pressure of finals weigh on me. The next day, we performed the athletic routine for the judges in groups of 10 and Rhapsody’s piece in pairs. We patiently waited for the judges to deliberate, and after an hour they came back into the studio to announce a team of 20 talented and gorgeous dancers… and I was one of them! I cannot wait to work with and learn from my new teammates; I am already feeling so blessed to be on the BEST dance team in the NBA!

The excitement did not end there. The following day, I auditioned to film a Good Morning America segment for Madonna’s “Addicted to Sweat” workout DVD. Out of 500 dancers and fitness-enthusiasts, myself, fellow Brooklynette Amy and about 30 others were chosen to burn off some calories with the one-and-only Madonna herself! Here we are after a long and exhausting day, but the memory will last a lifetime.

What an introduction back into the New York dance scene! Just another day in the life of a dancer I suppose. Hard work really does pay off!

I can't wait to return to show you more behind the scenes of my rookie season with the Brooklynettes, capture my first photo shoot as the Face of AKD and unveil the "Alexa" Collection available exclusively at Go Wild! Wear. 

Dream BIG!

Alexa

Meet Alexa on Facebook

Visit the AKD Sports Model Search Website

AKD Welcomes General Manager Sharon Humphrey

Angela King Designs and the House of AKD would like to introduce and welcome back to the cheerleading industry, Sharon Humphrey. Sharon is joining the AKD administrative team at the Texas home office as General Manager. She will also be assisting in marketing and sales development for the company, as well as active with our national sales team program.

As a long time veteran of the national cheerleading supply industry, Sharon has served as VP of Sales and Marketing for WinCraft, Inc., the nation’s largest supplier of cheerleading pom-poms and accessories. As Vice-President, Sharon spoke to large group seminars, conducted market research analysis, developed short and long term plans, as well as strategies to reach targeted goals.  She was also involved in marketing the WinCraft Super Bowl and US Olympic Festival merchandising programs.

Sharon also held the title of VP of Sales for the National Spirit Group, working directly with “The Father of American Cheerleading”, Lawrence Herkimer, located in Dallas, Texas. She managed cheerleading uniform sales and marketing and promotions, which included hiring, training, and managing over 70 sales associates throughout the United States. Sharon was also in charge of catalog production and new product development.

Prior to the above, Sharon served as VP of Sales and Marketing at the United Spirit Association (USA), with sales exclusively for Varsity Spirit Fashions. She developed and staffed Southern California and the Pacific North West regional sales offices. Once again, Sharon was working with new product development, catalogs, and camp stores. Over 50 fashion consultants in thirteen western states were under Sharon’s direction.

As a supporter of the cheerleading industry, Sharon has volunteered her time as a member of the Board of Directors for Victory International, Sports Pennants International, Workforce Development in California, and served on the Executive Board of Directors for the California State Center Consortium.

As a graduate of Fresno State University, holding a BA Degree in Physical Education and Speech, Sharon has also worked in the world of education and coaching. She truly understands the needs of teams and team directors. 

All of us at AKD are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such a seasoned professional in the cheerleading industry. Sharon has worked with the best in the business! Welcome Sharon to the House of AKD!

Meet AKD Newest Style Pros

Where Are They Now?

Recently we caught up with some of our 2012 and 2013 AKD Sports Model Search Finalists. These ladies are truly amazing!! Do you have an update? Send photos and comments to laura@gowildwear.com. 

2013 NATIONAL TOP TEN ALEXANDRA

Alexandra was a stand out ranking in the National Top Ten in 2013 representing the Atlanta Hawks NBA Dancers. During her audition this summer as a veteran, Alexandra took confidence in wearing Go Wild! Wear's sequin crop halter and sequin tiny short. After auditions the director said they have to get some of those amazing shorts! Congratulations Alexandra on your veteran status with the Hawks! 



2012 FINALIST MICHELLE K.

You'll remember Michelle - during the 2012 Sports Model Search Contest she was rounding out her season with the San Antonio Spurs NBA Dance Team and serving for the United States military. Since then, she has relocated to St. Louis where she's been able to capture another pro level team position while wearing AKD Go Wild! Wear at auditions. She said she was the ONLY contestant in a colored brief, which really helped her stand out! Now she's wearing another one of AKD's most popular pro cheerleader uniforms as a St. Louis Rams Cheerleader! 



2013 NATIONAL TOP TEN CAITLYN R. 

We all remember the bubbly adorable Caitlyn representing the Texas State University Cheerleaders and placing in the 2013 National Top Ten. It was no surprise that Caitlyn's great looks and charisma captivated the judges at Houston Texans Cheerleaders auditions! She's sure to be another crowd favorite for one of the most recognized NFL teams in the country. Congratulations to Caitlyn for her first year cheering in the NFL! 



2012 NATIONAL TOP TEN STEPHANIE JILL

Stephanie Jill spent many years wearing AKD as a member of the New York Islanders Ice Girls, then was named to the National Top Ten in the 2012 Sports Model Search. Stephanie Jill retired from the NHL and entered a new arena in entertainment and modeling - she is your 2013 Ms. New York United States! Often described as a proud New Yorker, Stephanie Jill will compete this summer at the 2013 Ms. United States Pageant in Washington, DC. Best wishes Ms. New York Stephanie Jill Chernick!

Check back in the coming weeks for more exciting news from our 2013 AKD Sports Model Search Winner Alexa Kobylarcz!

Learn More About the AKD Model Search     

Submit a Contestant Update

AKD Heads to All Pro in Atlanta

As the creator of the country's most famous NFL and NBA performance wear, Angela King Designs is excited to once again return to the All Pro convention in Atlanta on July 22-23, 2013! 

The AKD booth welcomes performers to stop by and sign up for special giveaways throughout the weekend. Company representatives Vickie Miller and Laura Mason, former director of the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders, will be on hand to showcase AKD's products including the new Racewear designs worn by the 2013 Miss Grand Prix of Houston, breast cancer awareness designs worn by the Denver Broncos Cheerleaders, boot cuffs worn by the Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders, and countless more! Get your photo taken at the AKD "step and repeat" and be sure to tag the AKD Facebook page. 

Rams Cheerleaders in AKD at All Pro

In 2012, AKD's costume was the cover of the convention Sideline Distraction magazine! We can't wait to see who will appear this year! Finally, check the choreography schedule to learn a routine by AKD's very own Style Pro Sandy Charboneau, former director of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cheerleaders.

We'll see you in Atlanta! 

Style Pro Blog: Promoting Team Unity

By AKD Style Pro Michelle Gagnon

As the director of a SPIRIT squad, one perk is a strong prevalence of positive attitudes and productive team members. Nevertheless, girls will be girls, and we have all witnessed negative attitudes creeping up when you least expect it. As the team director, how do you combat this type of behavior before it begins? How can you improve a team’s dynamic and increase effectiveness? This article introduces simple exercises that can help your squad work together and create an extremely positive team experience.

MAINTAIN INTEGRITY

In order to command respect, a team director must earn her position of authority based on previous experience, vast knowledge and especially based on her positive attitude and behavior. Are you confident and organized? Are you thoughtful and supportive? Your team will be witness to your professionalism in all situations. You are probably thinking, “Michelle, no matter how good I am, we still can’t find team unity!” I agree, problems will arise no matter how hard a director tries to maintain a level of normalcy. Make notes in your weekly and monthly activities that evaluate your attitude and behavior, the team’s attitude and behavior, and how the two correlate.

CREATE TRADITIONS

Begin now by creating traditions to foster team unity. One of my professional dance teams introduced the Big Sister - Little Sister program. Veterans were paired up with rookies with the mission to guide new team members throughout the year. From perfecting choreography, to helping them understand game operations, to fulfilling team responsibilities, veterans stood by their little sisters every step of the way. In another organization, we designated Secret Pals which were revealed at the end of the year. Our duty was to perform simple, uplifting acts for our secret pal, such as presenting occasional surprises like a bottle of water at practice or sunblock for long summer outdoor practices. These types of Buddy Programs promote good natured support throughout the year by simply pairing up the ladies at the onset of the season.

CELEBRATE DIFFERENCES

Equality among team members is important to stay unified. Directors must promote the strengths of each and every squad member. Directors who “play favorites” will find their team developing an unhealthy sense of competition and even hatred toward team members. Instead, I encourage you to constantly promote a feeling that each team member is special and has the ability to contribute to the organization. It’s important to encourage everyone – including yourself – to examine and improve upon her weaknesses. I am fond of the Spider Web game, which allows each teammate to vocally acknowledge another teammate. One person holds the end of yarn and says something positive about another team member, then throws the yarn to her while still holding on to one end. Then that team member does the same until every member has taken a g turn. At the end of the exercise, the team visually sees that they are connected by this web of positive traits that collectively make them a great team.

ACKNOWLEDGE SMALL ACHIEVEMENTS

Make a habit of providing positive recognition at each practice and game. Consider noting a special award at each rehearsal, even as simple as “Best Smile” or “Most Improved Jumps.” Remember that your team members are asked to make a substantial commitment – attending rehearsals and games, maintaining their uniforms, attending appearances – this can take a toll on anyone, especially a young girl! One of my favorite traditions is my dance studio end of year surprise party. The kids think they are attending another boring rehearsal, then are greeted by smiling teachers with the studio decorated, giving out treats and gifts, and taking time to watch a commemorative video. Yet it’s important to note that a fabulous end of year party cannot make up for a year absent from praise and acknowledgment. To truly encourage this attitude it must be seamlessly integrated throughout your season.  

CREATE A SENSE OF ACCOMPLISHMENT

Team unity will increase when the squad accomplishes tasks together. My director once surprised us with a scavenger hunt in place of practice. At the onset of our usual eight-hour Saturday practice, we instead boarded a bus to an oceanfront town. Place in small groups, we were handed a list of tasks and asked to capture a group photograph at the completion of each task. One task was challenging a man to push-ups in public. Another was walking around with toilet paper stuck to our shoes until someone stopped to notify us. This was one of the best times we had as a team and we had the photos to prove it! We were reminded that we all have different personalities and opinions, yet could work together to produce results. Instead of a scavenger hunt, consider taking your team to volunteer for a charity or hosting a monthly team dinner at different houses.

IN CONCLUSION

A director’s responsibility goes beyond choreography, enforcing rules and creating a schedule. I challenge you to constantly foster an environment of team unity – before it’s too late! Make these activities a part of your annual schedule instead of waiting to respond to signs of negativity. And remember, you are not alone! At AKD we are here to support you in your role. Contact us for all of your coaching and costuming needs at www.angelakingdesigns.com. 

ABOUT MICHELLE GAGNON 
Michelle Gagnon was a New England Patriots Cheerleader from 2000-2002, performing at Super Bowl XXXVI in New Orleans. Michelle has a degree in Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University. She continues to serve as the Coach and Choreographer of the university dance team. Previously she was the Coordinator and Assistant Choreographer of the Manchester Wolves Arena2Football Dance Team. She continues to instruct dance performance at Dance, Etc. studio and serves on the board of the Dance Visions Network as Stage Manager of the annual Nutcracker Suite performance. Michelle resides in New Hampshire near the Boston Metro area and will serve the Upper Northeast including states of New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine and Connecticut. Previous Style Pro in the Northeast Laura Eilers Clark remains on the Style Pro team for the Mid-Northeast. 

Meet the AKD Style Pro Team

Spotlight on Style Pro Rani Reichow

RANI REICHOW
Phone: 1-877-97-GO-AKD x713
Email: rani@gowildwear.com
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Territory: Arizona, Southern California, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah

Background:

• Director, Pinnacle HS Spirit Line Dance Team (current)
• Kansas City Chiefs Cheerleader (2007)
• Arizona Cardinals Cheerleader (2009, 2012, 2013 current)
• Omaha Beef Dancer, Indoor Football (1 year) Voted MVP 2008
• Former Fitness Equipment Sales Representative and Fitness Wear Stylist
• Master of Arts from University of Phoenix in Secondary Teacher Education
• Bachelor of Science Degree from University of Nebraska in Education and Exercise Science, graduated Cum Laude
• Nebraska Business Development Center, Event Planning
• Consultant, Going Pro Entertainment
• Director of Dance Camps and Spirit Store, UDA
• National Cheerleading Director for a youth sports league
• UDA Veteran of the Year Nominee

ABOUT RANI REICHOW: 

If you know Rani, it's no surprise that her AKD team nickname is "Sparkle." 

A two-team NFL cheerleader, Rani was raised in Nebraska to bleed Cornhusker red. After spending a couple of years performing with the IFL Omaha Beef, Rani ventured south to become a Kansas City Chiefs Cheerleader. During this time, Rani instructed camps with Varsity and Universal Dance Association, where she was nominated as UDA Veteran of the Year! 

After spending a few years working on her fitness career in Florida, Rani found another calling to yell "Go Big Red" as an Arizona Cardinals Cheerleader. When she's not cheering in the NFL, "Sparkle" stays busy as a high school poms coach and teacher. In 2012-2013 was named AKD's Style Pro of the Year for Top Sales in the Company. Her most recent customers have included University of Utah, Arizona State University, and the San Diego Enforcer Girls. 

As a newlywed to husband Jamey, Rani (McLenon) Reichow may have a new last name... but she'll always be "Sparkle" at AKD! 

View the Style Pro Directory

Spotlight on Style Pro Laura Mason

LAURA MASON 
Phone: 1-877-974-6253, Ext. 715
Email: Lauramason@gowildwear.com
Location: Augusta, Georgia
Territory: Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee

Background: 

• Director, Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders 1994-2001
• Director, Atlanta Falcons Junior Cheerleaders 1996-1999
• Cheerleader, Atlanta Falcons 
• Tour team, “The Women of the NFL” 
• Staff instructor, Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA)
• Coach for cheerleading teams at the high school and all star gym levels

ABOUT LAURA MASON:

Laura brings to AKD several years of director and performance experience. As the director of the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders from 1994-2001 and the director of the Falcons Junior Cheerleaders from 1996-1999, Laura coordinated Super Bowl and American Bowl activities and created the first ever Angela King Designs signature uniform for the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders. 

Prior to leading these programs, Laura performed with the Falcons Cheerleaders for five years, serving as captain, performing on both the co-ed stunt team and the all-girl performance team, and touring with “The Women of the NFL.” She also spent time as a staff instructor for Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) and has served as coach for cheerleading teams at the high school and all star gym levels.

Laura is the mother of two teenage children and lives with her husband in Augusta, Georgia. 

View the Style Pro Directory