After school activities at Department of Defense Education Activity, Pacific schools challenge and engage students in a variety of unique and different opportunities. One of which is the Cheerleading program in both the middle and high schools across the Pacific.

Danielle Balfour, class of 2013 has been activity involved in cheerleading for the past several years. Balfour and her family relocated to Okinawa in 2010.

“I have great compassion for our teenage community, because it’s a challenge living here knowing that I am not exposed to some of the same benefits that my state side friends have. At the same time, I have gained some tangible experiences. For example, I have participated in cheerleading for the past two and half years both football and basketball at Kubasaki. I have also had the honor of being a Varsity Cheerleader. I held the position of being Cheerleading Captain during my junior and senior year. I also participate in track and field and remained blessed to be able to travel and compete in Far East Tournaments. I am currently ranked second in the 100 meter hurdler and was the team captain last year.”

Balfour inspires others through her commitment to the local Japanese community on Okinawa.

“Currently I am volunteering with a non-profit organization. This program is an apprenticeship for high school students who desire to become entrepreneurs. I have volunteered over 600 hours, managing my own business teaching dance and piano lessons to pre-school and school age children. There are also some special needs children that I am teaching who have intellectual disabilities.”

Ms. Tammy Yoder, a cheerleading coach for 10 years has been an instructor for the past two years at Kubasaki High School works with Danielle Balfour.

This is my second year with Danielle Balfour. Dannie was on the varsity football cheer team and made the Far East Team. She also made the varsity for the basketball season and became co-captain in 2012-2013. This year Dannie is Captain of the varsity and Far East Cheerleading Teams. Dannie is a great asset I am very grateful. She is a responsible hard working individual, who is constantly giving of herself to help others. She is a respected leader among her teammates. I think this comes from her devotion and dedication to her skill development and willingness to take on any challenge to better her team.”

It is apparent that dedication and commitment to excellence equal success. Dannie’s father is a Soldier stationed in Okinawa, Japan and works for the 10th Regional Support Group.