Gabriela Davila demands fairness and transparency in Centennial High cheer tryouts

At the recent Burleson ISD Board Meeting, a heartfelt plea for fairness in the varsity cheer tryout process took center stage, as Centennial High School student Gabriela Davila shared her distressing experience. Davila, a dedicated cheerleader with two years of experience and a history of leadership, expressed her frustration over a lack of transparency in the tryout criteria, particularly regarding tumbling skills.

Davila recounted how she was informed by her coach that tumbling would not be a requirement for making the varsity team. Confident in her abilities, she proceeded to try out without including tumbling in her routine. However, when the results were announced, she discovered that tumbling was indeed a deciding factor, leaving her feeling blindsided and misled.

In an emotional appeal, Davila described the humiliation of being informed of her rejection in front of school administrators during class, rather than in a private setting. She emphasized the need for a fair chance and transparency in the evaluation process, advocating for a second tryout where she could fully showcase her skills.

Davila's call for change extended beyond her personal experience. She urged the board to reconsider the tryout process for future cheerleaders, advocating for a system that recognizes years of dedication and commitment rather than a brief performance judged by unfamiliar evaluators. She questioned why Centennial's process differed from other schools, such as Burleson High School, where coaches have more autonomy in decision-making.

In closing, Davila implored the board to take a hard look at the current tryout practices, emphasizing the importance of fairness and transparency for all students involved in the cheer program. Her passionate testimony highlighted a significant issue within the school's athletic evaluation system, prompting a discussion on how to better support student athletes in their pursuit of excellence.