Interview with Chelsea Hermanson of North Dakota Elite Cheer
(DALLAS, TEXAS) – A group of 50 cheerleaders from a Fargo-based cheer program were in Dallas, Texas, on Saturday when chaos erupted inside the Kay Bailey Convention Center. Reports were that a possible active shooter was at the site of the National Cheer Association’s national cheerleading championships.
But North Dakota Elite Coach and Owner, Chelsea Hermanson, says what happened is not exactly clear.
“I do know that there were noises and there were people yelling and saying that there was a shooter, and mass crows running and screaming,” she said. “Basically, running for their lives to get out of the venue as fast as they could.”
Dallas Police say an investigation determined a fight between two people led to multiple poles being knocked down, causing a loud noise.
“This noise contributed to panic inside the building, prompting people to rush outside in a stampede,” Dallas Police said in a statement. Multiple non-life-threatening injuries occurred.
The North Dakota contingent was not all together at the time – as there was one North Dakota team warming up for competition, as well as some teams watching others compete. With thousands in the venue, cell phone service was not readily available – making checking to make sure all athletes were accounted for difficult, Hermanson said.
“That was hard, just the unknown of where everybody is,” she said. “Over time, we were all able to connect with each other through text and call, and make sure everybody was okay and check on everybody.”
Security was not as strict as it could have been, Hermanson said. Security was not checking bags and backpacks, nor were they putting people through metal detectors. At other events, Hermanson said, security was higher than it was at the national competition in Dallas.
In the end, North Dakota’s four teams were successful – with all placing in the top eight. But, at the end of the day, Hermanson’s message was simple.
“Hold your loved ones extra tight,” she said.
Flag Family Media reached out to Varsity Brands, which runs the NCA All-Star National Championship, about the security concerns and why there was no backpack screening.
“We are committed to continuously reviewing and strengthening our safety and security protocols to enhance the safety of our events,” said Brian Bianco, senior director of strategic communications, in a written statement.
“Our team regularly assesses procedures, incorporates feedback and enlists the aid of security professionals to ensure best practices are in place,” writes Bianco
The statement went on to say Varsity Brands already an on-site “event safety manager” who reports to their chief security officer at each of their competitions.
The chief security officer is tasked with “enhancing the security and safety practices at our competitions and camp.”
“Varsity Brands takes the safety and security of our athletes, coaches and spectators very seriously,” writes Bianco.
