Miami Metal Tryouts Bring Energy and History to South Florida

Miami, FL — Miami Metal tryouts brought together some of the best cheer athletes in the country, filling the gym with intensity, nerves, and the unmistakable feeling that something historic was underway.

“Being one of the four cities to launch this, and having it in Miami - ten minutes from home - is surreal,” said Jean Cameron, who moved to Miami as a teenager. “Just knowing we’re going to be a staple for something so new… it’s amazing.”

For many athletes, the Pro Cheer League represents more than another team. It’s the chance to elevate cheerleading to a professional stage. Chris Donaldson described his first day in one word: “Thrilling.” He added, “Walking into the gym and seeing all the talent around me was nerve-wracking, but I turned those nerves into confidence.”

That sense of opportunity was echoed by Alondra Alamo, who moved from Puerto Rico to pursue cheerleading at a higher level. “We don’t have many resources back home,” she said. “I want to inspire young athletes that if you train with perseverance and heart, you can achieve your goals.”

Veterans of the sport also felt the weight of the moment. Ryan Klotz, a former member of Team USA, said, “Programs like Alabama, Louisville, and Team USA taught me how to stay calm under pressure. I’d love to be the first Pro Cheer League champion.”

Jay Kendrick, who has cheered with programs across the country, highlighted the excitement of the competition itself. “My favorite part was hitting those basket tosses to the ceiling,” he said. “The energy was insane. I want to put a new message out there for the youth and inspire across the world.”

Coaches are just as eager. Jose Gonzalez, who grew up in the Miami cheer scene and now coaches, said, “With a new format and fewer constraints, we can raise the bar. There are things we’ve wanted to do for years that now we’ll get to put on the floor.”

For athletes like Faye Ho, the moment also means validation. “It’s wild to say professional cheerleading out loud,” she said. “It feels like our sport is finally catching up to the pros.”

From rookies to veterans, every athlete agreed on one thing: Miami Metal’s first tryout was about more than rosters or routines. It was about setting the standard. As Donaldson put it, “My dream for Miami Metal is to help set the tone for cheerleading.”