Dianne Greenough
After dedicating over 46 years to the development and promotion of cheerleading, Dianne Greenough stands as a true builder and pioneer of the sport in Alberta. Her unwavering commitment to empowering youth through athleticism, teamwork, and creativity has transformed cheerleading from a sideline activity into a recognized competitive sport with a vibrant community.
Dianne's journey began in 1978 at Victoria High School, now known as Victoria School of the Performing Arts in Edmonton. As a teacher and coach, she initially led teams in volleyball and basketball but soon discovered her passion for cheerleading. Recognizing the sport's potential to build self-confidence and teamwork among students, she established her first cheer team. Through studying international cheer videos and attending camps, Dianne honed her skills in choreography, acrobatics, and stunting.
Over 18 years, her cheer teams at Victoria School amassed an impressive record, winning 52 city and provincial titles and over 200 championship trophies globally. Notably, in 1994, her team secured first place at the World Cheerleading Championships in Japan. In 2012, they claimed the national title, solidifying their reputation for excellence.
Understanding the need for formal recognition and structure, Dianne was instrumental in having cheerleading recognized as an official sport by the Alberta Schools' Athletic Association (ASAA) in 1984. She initiated the creation of the Alberta Cheerleading Association (ACA), providing governance and support for the sport's growth. Her advocacy ensured that multiple teams from individual schools could compete at zone and provincial championships.
In 1995, Dianne expanded her influence by becoming the head coach of the Edmonton CFL Cheer Team. She revolutionized professional cheerleading by incorporating acrobatics and stunting and was the first in the CFL to introduce co-ed teams, breaking gender barriers and enhancing the athleticism of performances. Her leadership elevated the standard of cheer across the CFL, inspiring other teams to adopt similar practices. She also founded the "Grey Cup Cheer Extravaganza," uniting cheer teams from across the league in a showcase of talent during the Grey Cup festivities.
Dianne's passion for inclusivity led her to establish programs for athletes with special needs, offering them opportunities to participate and perform. In 2010, alongside her husband Jim and colleague Leanne Campbell, she founded Perfect Storm Athletics, a gym dedicated to cheerleading and tumbling programs for youth aged four and up. The gym expanded to multiple locations, becoming the first in Alberta to offer programs for participants with disabilities.
Her contributions have been widely recognized:
- Alumni Honour Award from the University of Alberta in 2012
- Induction into the ASAA Hall of Fame in 2013
- Induction into the Edmonton Sports Hall of Fame in 2015
- Recipient of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022
- The "Dianne Greenough Trophy" awarded annually at the ASAA Co-Ed Cheer Provincial Championship
Cheer Builder- Inducted 2025
Dianne's influence extends beyond coaching. She played a key role in establishing Cheer Canada, the national governing body for cheerleading, in 2005. Her expertise was sought for major events, including the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, the 2001 World Track and Field Championships, and the 2005 World Masters Games.
Through her career, Dianne has mentored countless athletes and coaches, many of whom have gone on to lead their own teams and organizations. Her legacy is evident in the thriving cheer community in Alberta and across Canada.
Retiring from Perfect Storm Athletics in 2022, Dianne leaves behind a robust infrastructure for cheerleading, but her passion for the sport and its athletes continues to inspire. Her life's work has not only elevated the sport of cheerleading but has also provided life-changing opportunities for thousands of young people.
