Julie Michaud
How did it feel when you first made the cheerleading team?
I had been giving dance classes and got an invite to come try out for the Alouettes Cheerleaders, but I had just moved to Montreal and I didn’t really know what to expect… I wasn’t even all that familiar with the team. But I learned very quickly what the team and the cheerleaders were all about when I was selected and it led to an amazing eight-year journey that I wouldn’t trade for the world! I consider myself very lucky to have been part of the team.
What was your best moment as an Alouettes cheerleader?
There are many, but the top have to be the first time I saw the stadium, winning the Grey Cup in Edmonton in 2002 and the calendar shoots we did in the south.
What doors did cheering for the Alouettes open for you?
Oh, it opened a lot of doors; I had the chance to do a bunch of dance contracts, some television work, and to meet a lot of great people… I had so many offers of choreography contracts that I couldn’t even fill the demand! On a personal note, being part of the cheer team helped me open up to others and learn about things like respect, teamwork, and discipline.
What are you up to now?
I’m working as an actuary and still doing a few dance contracts here and there. I also find time now and then to do some choreography for a benefit show for the Maisonneuve-Rosemont hospital. I certainly keep busy!
What’s your biggest piece of advice for a young girl who would like to one day be a cheerleader?
Any girl who loves to dance and be part of a team should try out for the Alouettes’ cheer team. Don’t be afraid to just go for it – even if you don’t make the team, the auditions are an experience you’ll never regret. Also, if you don’t make it the first time, try again – perseverance is a quality you’ll always be able to count on.
