Balancing Act – Cheerleading and College Success vs. Complex Family Dynamics
By Regina Aaron
Escondido, CA - The professional voice that greets callers at a successful auto body shop belongs not to a seasoned vehicle repair specialist, but to Dominique “Domi” Hillery, a former member of Santa Monica College’s all-girl cheerleading squad.
Domi was a member of the squad for 2 years and participated in many events and competitions, but her aspirations to become a professional cheerleader, choreographer and entrepreneur are on hold. As with many young adults, transitioning from living at home to “leaving the nest” didn’t work out and resulted in Domi returning to live with her father after being on her own for a few years.
The middle child of three children, all girls, Domi grew up living between homes in the Los Angeles and San Diego areas; an arrangement between her parents who did not believe in divorce but wanted to play a consistent part in their children’s lives. Few people outside the family notice the difference in age between Domi and her younger sister – only 6 months. Those close to the family that know the Game of Thrones-like story maintain a discreet silence on the matter. The last time the three sisters were together at …show more content…
While living in the San Diego area with her father and sisters, Domi attended upper class/middle class schools and was able to participate in cheerleading programs that were treated as year-round sports and not limited to encouraging school spirit at football games and parades. The costs of participation were high as uniforms, non-school coaching sessions, travel and other expenses added up quickly. A successful businessman who owns several auto repair shops and car dealerships, Domi’s father could afford these items, and Domi did not need to work when she was in high
By Regina Aaron
Escondido, CA - The professional voice that greets callers at a successful auto body shop belongs not to a seasoned vehicle repair specialist, but to Dominique “Domi” Hillery, a former member of Santa Monica College’s all-girl cheerleading squad.
Domi was a member of the squad for 2 years and participated in many events and competitions, but her aspirations to become a professional cheerleader, choreographer and entrepreneur are on hold. As with many young adults, transitioning from living at home to “leaving the nest” didn’t work out and resulted in Domi returning to live with her father after being on her own for a few years.
The middle child of three children, all girls, Domi grew up living between homes in the Los Angeles and San Diego areas; an arrangement between her parents who did not believe in divorce but wanted to play a consistent part in their children’s lives. Few people outside the family notice the difference in age between Domi and her younger sister – only 6 months. Those close to the family that know the Game of Thrones-like story maintain a discreet silence on the matter. The last time the three sisters were together at …show more content…
While living in the San Diego area with her father and sisters, Domi attended upper class/middle class schools and was able to participate in cheerleading programs that were treated as year-round sports and not limited to encouraging school spirit at football games and parades. The costs of participation were high as uniforms, non-school coaching sessions, travel and other expenses added up quickly. A successful businessman who owns several auto repair shops and car dealerships, Domi’s father could afford these items, and Domi did not need to work when she was in high