Vitale's Mission to Share Chieftain Cheer

Nicole Vitale took an amazing trip this August and it changed her.

The senior and captain of the cheerleading squad spent seven days visiting five Peruvian cities along the Amazon River on a mission trip through Missions.Me, Dominic Russo Ministries.

She's returned home a little more thankful and a little more humble.

"Seeing the natives in Peru touched my heart," said Vitale. "My heart was breaking for these people, as they literally have nothing but they smiled all the time. We complain about the little things here and it really makes you think. I think about what I saw in the little cities and I'm thankful for what I have here. Now when I'm at cheer I try not to sweat the little things, I try not to get frustrated. I know what I do here at school and in my life is important so I can express my love in other places." 

Vitale's group taught the Peruvians about God along the excursion through testimonials and skits and shared their personal experiences on how God has touched their lives.

Unfortunately for Vitale, the weeklong mission was the same week as the school's summer cheer camp. Fortunately for Vitale, varsity cheer coach Michelle Delekta made a special exception.

"I admired the fact that Nicole went on a mission trip," said Delekta. "I completely never allow girls to miss cheer camp, but she was one person that I trusted to do that. She came back to practice and knew everything right away. She took it upon herself to learn the routines and she holds her herself accountable. I trust her in supporting me and supporting the team."

Vitale is a member of both the sideline and competitive teams.

"Nicole has been with me for four years and both her and her mom are super supportive of the program," said Delekta. "Nicole is a leader by example. She is always positive and works very hard. She is one of my strongest athletes and pushes herself to the limit. Nicole never gives up."

Vitale leaned on her teammates to help her get on track.

"As soon as I got back I worked hard to learn the routines with my friends," said Vitale. "My teammates were there to help me when I returned and were very supportive. I love cheering at the games and the team is like a second family to me. My coach is also very supportive and understanding; I know I can go to her for anything whether is cheer-related or not."