St. Michael-Albertville High's "Mama B" Earns Cheer Coach of the Year Award

Most coaches, regardless of sport, are given role-model status by some or all of their players. 

For Becky Stephens, that role has earned her the nickname "Mama B." 

It's also earned her national recognition, after she was named the United Performance Association Cheer Coach of the Year last month. 

The award was handed out at a banquet here in the Twin Cities. Stephens, who is in her fourth year as head coach of the St. Michael-Albertville High School sideline cheer program, was one of four finalists, joining coaches from Kansas, Illinois and Missouri. 

"I kind of had that Miss America moment," Stephens said. "That 'Oh my gosh, they said my name!' It's unbelievable." 

Stephens was nominated by her team, who responded to a call from UPA for written entries. 

The notes written by her squad were heartfelt, and painted the picture of a coach who teaches much more than toe-touches and pom routines. 

"Each time I learn something new I know I'm being taught the right way, because she wouldn't have her teams learn it any other way," wrote team member Emily Goenner. "Not only is Becky a great coach, but she's also a great friend. Throughout my high school years I have learned that I can go to her and talk to her about anything and everything that's on my mind. Recently, when my dad was diagnosed with cancer, I went to her for support. I know I can trust her."

Stephens said she was humbled.

"I was so proud just to be a finalist and represent the state of Minnesota. Then to learn what my team had said was wonderful. I have such a passion for cheer. It's a great honor."

Stephens has been coaching cheer for 12 years, with stints in Irondale and at a couple of all-star camps around the metro. She's seen cheer come under fire during tough economic times, with teams getting cut to save money.

St. Michael-Albertville, for example, has moved its competitive cheer team under the Community Education umbrella, to help curb costs. The sideline program, which cheers for football, volleyball and soccer (boys and girls), has been threatened with cuts, but has survived.

And with good results. The STMA cheer team was second in the state in its class in cheer competition, behind Academy of Holy Angels. Competing with the Division I schools at a meet in Robbinsdale, STMA actually placed second, again.

It's a program that has really taken huge strides, Stephens said.

"She is very 'cheer' smart, and knows exactly what she is doing everytime," said team member Atalie Duncan.