About us
Tyneside Ignite Cheerleading was formed in January 2017 by Jo Burrows, supported by co-director Michaela Newham. We operate as a not-for-profit CIC. Cheerleading is more than just a sport to our whole community.
Our Mission Statement
Inclusive
We provide access to cheerleading to all those that are willing to give their time and dedication to the sport, regardless of age, gender, status, or ability. We accept each other for who we are, and encourage individuals to be themselves.
Growth
We encourage the individual growth of every one of our athletes both in and out of the cheerleading gym; we motivate our athletes to become good citizens and encourage them to make good choices. We continue to grow as a club in every way possible.
Nurture
We lead by example to encourage young athletes to develop into good people, hard workers, and positive role models in the community.
Inspire
Our coaches inspire our athletes to want to do better, work harder and think wiser. Our athletes inspire each other to become better athletes and people. We encourage our coaches and athletes to have ambitions and goals.
Teamwork
Teamwork is the pinnacle of our sport and club. We work as a team to conquer new skills and routines. We work as a team to share ideas, to lift each other up and to progress as one team and one family.
Empower
We instil strong values such as integrity, resilience, self-confidence, discipline, responsibility, and leadership in all our athletes and approach every session, and every competition with a positive attitude. Our athletes empower each other, becoming each others biggest cheerleaders.
Meet the Coaches
Jo
Jarrow Location
I am the Director of Ignite Cheerleading and the Head Coach of Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 6, and I have coached since 2017. I love cheer for the teamwork, resilience, and positive environment it creates. I’m passionate about supporting our athletes as they grow in confidence both on and off the mat, as well as developing strong and confident leaders for life.
Michaela
Jarrow Location
I am a Director at Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 2, and I have coached since 2017. I love cheer for the strong sense of teamwork and community it creates. I’m dedicated to working alongside our coaching team to support athletes as they grow and achieve their goals. I focus on creating a positive and supportive experience for every athlete that steps through our gym doors.
Ellie
Jarrow Location
I am the head of Novice and Prep cheer at Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 6, and I have coached since 2018. I love cheer for the positive impact we get to make on our athletes. I'm dedicated to building strong foundations, confidence, and a lifelong love for the sport. I take pride in helping athletes progress from their first steps in cheer through to an international standard.
Kerry
Jarrow Location
I am a coach and the Safeguard lead at Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 2, I have coached since 2019. I love cheer for the supportive, family-focused environment it creates. I enjoy seeing our athletes grow, progress, and achieve their personal and team goals over the years.
Jess
Jarrow Location
I am a coach at Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 2, and I have been coaching since 2021. I love cheer for the creativity, teamwork, and energy it brings. I’m committed to supporting athletes as they grow in confidence, and I love being part of the club's welcoming environment.
Rebecca
Jarrow Location
I am a coach at Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 2, and have been coaching since 2022. I love cheer for the supportive, family-like environment, and the positive energy it brings. I enjoy helping athletes unlock their potential and watching them grow in confidence and ability.
Ava
Jarrow Location
I am a coach at Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 2, and have coached since 2023. I love cheer because of the positivity and encouragement within our club. I focus on giving that energy back through coaching, and inspiring our athletes to push themselves and go far in the sport.
Nicola
Jarrow Location
I am a coach at Tyneside Ignite. I'm qualified to level 1, and I have been coaching since 2025. I love cheer for the positive impact it has had on my life. I focus on supporting both competitive and non-competitive athletes as they grow, build confidence, and achieve their goals.
Ashton
Barnsley Location
I am the Director of Ignite Barnsley. I'm qualified to level 6, and I have coached since 2012. I love cheer for the passion, teamwork, and lifelong connections it creates. I’m passionate about supporting athletes as they grow in confidence whilst developing the Barnsley location.
Morgan
Barnsley Location
Coming Soon!
Amelia
Barnsley Location
Coming Soon!
Alongside our qualified adult coaches, we are supported by a team of junior coaches and junior leaders. These aspiring coaches are an invaluable part of our club, providing additional support during sessions, assisting with skill development, and helping to create a positive and inclusive training environment. They serve as excellent role models within our athlete community and approach their responsibilities with professionalism, enthusiasm, and care.
