BY SAPNA PATHAK

DURHAM – For the girls of Concord High and Bow High spirit, this season was about gaining familiarity with new coaches, new systems, new choreographers and new teammates.

Both squads competed at this year’s Class L and Class IMS Fall State Spirit Competition on Sunday, Nov. 5, at the Whittemore Center.

The Crimson Tide, under new head coach Janice Nichols, placed 10th, scoring 154.0 total points. First-year mentor Tanya Spead led the Falcons to an eighth-place finish with 141.5 total points.

“We had a new coach, new choreographer, new music person,” said Nichols. “So this year was really a building year. Right from the start I noticed they’re really hard workers and great dancers, so it made the transition easier.”

Nichols and her team recently hosted the Concord Capital City Tournament on Oct. 29, where Concord debuted its performance three times. Hosting the tournament, said Nichols, allowed teams an early look at competitor’s routines.

Spead said leaving the Capital City tournament helped her team pinpoint mistakes it was making. The Falcons used the week leading to the state competition to correct those flaws.

She added Bow’s biggest adjustment was becoming comfortable with her personality.

“As a coach I’m very serious, but as a person I’m really laid back,” said Spead. “So they were really trying to get used to what I expected … things like focusing all the time and taking their classes at cheer-gym seriously.”

Spead said her experience coaching at the Three Rivers School in Pembroke allowed her to bring a competitive spirit to the team. She also did not appoint team captains in an effort to foster teamwork.

While Spead said the Falcons were hoping to beat rival Bishop Brady, which placed third with 154.0 points, Nichols said she was analyzing all Class L clubs.

“All the Class L teams have stepped it up, so I couldn’t say who I’m afraid of,” said Nichols.

“We had some new girls and some late-season injuries, so things had to be revamped and hopefully it pays off.”

Both coaches said bringing an interactive approach to practices helped the teams come together quicker. Nichols added her girls became accustomed to her “happy medium” style of coaching.

“I know when to have fun and when to get down to business,” said Nichols. “This year has been an experience for both sides, and I think next season it’ll be a lot smoother.”