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In this episode of the Cheer Biz Podcast, Dan Cotton shares one of the biggest coaching mistakes he has seen over 23 years in the cheer industry: putting athletes in a box.

Too often, coaches label athletes as lazy, untalented, weak, difficult, unmotivated, or incapable of reaching the next level. The problem is that those labels create bias, influence coaching decisions, and can prevent athletes from reaching their true potential.

Dan breaks down the common boxes coaches put athletes into, why these labels are often inaccurate, and how some of the most successful athletes he has ever coached were once the athletes nobody believed in. He explains why athletes develop at different rates, why confidence and opportunity matter so much, and how coaches can avoid limiting athletes with their own expectations.

This episode is a powerful reminder for cheer coaches, gym owners, and program directors that athlete development is rarely linear. The athletes who struggle today may become the leaders, world champions, and program-changing athletes of tomorrow.

If you want to become a better coach, develop more athletes, and create a culture where potential is nurtured instead of limited, this episode is for you.