About Lions Elite
Our Story
From a small middle-school cheer team to national champions, and a family that lifts every athlete higher.
Where We Began
Built on resilience. Driven by opportunity.
Lions Elite was founded with a mission to uplift and empower underrepresented youth by providing the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to succeed in life, both on and off the mat.
What began as a small cheer team at a local middle school quickly grew into a tight-knit family where young athletes build confidence, develop leadership skills, and find a sense of belonging. When obstacles arose, we adapted, proving that determination and community can overcome any barrier.
Recognizing the financial barriers that keep underserved youth from competitive cheer, we created the only program in Kern County that offers elite-level training at no cost, so every child, regardless of background, has access to a sport that fosters discipline, resilience, and teamwork.
2015
Founded
Lions Elite begins as a small cheer team at a local middle school.
2020
National Champions
Our athletes win a national championship, proof of their skill, strength, and perseverance.
Today
No-Cost Elite Cheer
The only program in Kern County offering elite-level training at no cost to families.
What Guides Us
Mission, Vision & Values
01 — Mission
Champions in every part of life
We use competitive cheer to prepare young people for success in athletics, education, careers, and life, through mentorship, academic support, and community engagement.
02 — Vision
Opportunity for every athlete
A Kern County where every young person, regardless of background, has access to elite training, caring mentors, and a clear path to college and career.
03 — Values
What we stand for
Discipline. Resilience. Teamwork. Belonging. Service. We hold ourselves to these on the mat, in the classroom, and in our community.
Development Pillars
More than cheer. A whole-athlete approach.
Our mission goes beyond the routine. Every athlete grows through four connected pillars that prepare them to lead long after they leave the mat.
Leadership
Through mentorship and service initiatives, athletes build the skills and confidence to become leaders in their communities.
Mentorship
Coaches and mentors guide each athlete through challenges on and off the mat, with emotional development support and a family that shows up for them.
Discipline
Elite training builds perseverance, accountability, and work ethic: habits that carry into school, jobs, and life.
Academic Success
Progress monitoring, tutoring, A-G guidance, campus tours, and application & FAFSA workshops help our athletes become college-ready.
Leadership & Coaching
The team behind the team
Dedicated coaches and mentors who pour into our athletes every single day.
Kei Jackson Ashby
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Be part of the story
Join our team, mentor an athlete, or help keep elite cheer free for every family.