Sports Locker • January/February 2025 • COACH OF THE ISSUE

When Capital City High School first opened its doors, Coach Cailin Collins was ready to help shape more than just its academic environment. She stepped into her role as the school’s cheer coach, building a program from the ground up. “We started with a team of nine athletes, most of whom had little to no cheer experience. We figured it out as we went, and I learned a lot along the way.”

For Cailin, coaching isn’t just about perfecting routines or winning competitions—it’s about empowering students to realize their potential. “I’ve always believed that sports and activities teach students valuable lessons and skills. When students discover their future is limitless, that’s what keeps me motivated.”

Her approach to coaching is shaped by her mentors and academic pursuits. Drawing inspiration from her high school coaches, Miki Kasch and Chris Moore, Cailin developed a belief that athletes can achieve anything with hard work. This perspective guided her as she completed the Positive Coaching and Athletic Leadership Master Program at Mizzou. The program introduced her to the Self-Determination Theory and the ABCs of coaching: Autonomy, Belongingness, and Competence. “When these needs are met, athletes experience greater well-being and motivation. I center my coaching around fostering these feelings in my athletes.”

Since those early days of figuring it out, Capital City’s cheer program has flourished under Coach Collins’ leadership. The team has claimed several accolades, including a first-place finish at the 2023-2024 MCCA Game Day State and three CMAC Championships. Her efforts earned her the title of 2023-2024 CMAC Coach of the Year. But for Cailin, the real highlights aren’t just about trophies. “Watching the program grow and seeing athletes develop as individuals is the most rewarding part. It’s amazing to see their confidence soar and their teamwork strengthen.”

Of course, challenges are part of the journey. Discipline remains one of the toughest aspects of her job. “No coach enjoys addressing situations where an athlete’s actions don’t align with the team’s values.” The time commitment required for cheerleading is also demanding. “We’re busy 10 out of 12 months with practices, games, and competitions. It’s a nonstop schedule, but it’s worth it.”

Cailin emphasizes three core values in her program: confidence, effort, and teamwork. “Society often diminishes young women’s confidence, and I aim to build it back up. I want my athletes to feel proud of who they are and to uplift others around them.” Effort is another cornerstone. “If they give me their all, that’s all I can ask for.” And teamwork, especially in cheerleading, is non-negotiable. “Stunts and pyramids require absolute trust. When we work together, we’re at our best.”

Inspired by the values she learned growing up, Coach Collins strives to foster a culture of trust and commitment. “My parents, Rhonda and Randy, always supported my brother, Roman, and I in everything we did. They drove from St. Louis to watch me cheer at Mizzou, and now Roman and I enjoy going to games together.”

When she’s not coaching, Cailin enjoys traveling, working out, and being outdoors. “I love going to the beach, especially Cabo San Lucas,” a trip where she went whale watching and celebrated a friend’s wedding. Her love for learning is evident in her current pursuit of an Ed. Specialist degree and her role as Assessment Coordinator for the district. “I’m excited to grow in this new role and continue making an impact on our students.”

As she looks toward the future, Coach Collins hopes her athletes remember her for creating a program that is “competitive, kind, and hard-working.” From her days cheering in SEC stadiums to leading a state champion team, Cailin’s journey is a testament to her passion for helping students grow. “When you see your athletes thrive, both in cheerleading and in life, that’s the ultimate reward.”