In 2007 I put Justin in gymnastics in an attempt to focus his energy and "tricks" in a positive place and to save the couch and his bed from daily jumping, bouncing, flipping abuse. Airbound, his hard work and determination, and a friend convincing him to try out for high school cheer, sent him much further than we expected. Even far enough to pay a good portion of his university tuition.
As Justin progressed on the Weber Spirit Squad, he set a new goal to try out for the Utah Jazz Stunt Team. He adjusted his nutrition, changed his workouts, and focused on partner stunting. I received amazing Snap Chat videos showing his improvements with each new stunt, though much to my dismay, the videos self-destruct after watching. Still, I was witness to his hard work and commitment and was immediately his number one fan as he gained the status of a Utah Jazz Stunt Team Member.
At a Jazz game a couple of months later, he was able to do his firm official half-time performance with his original gym coach in attendance.
ValaRae was texting me throughout the evening and was so thrilled to watch Justin. She was especially impressed that right after doing the routine, Justin looked right at their family among the crowded stadium.
Camdyn and Jensen were already Justin fans from the gym when he would coach them, but having Justin search them out and make a quick visit in their sky box completely made their surprise birthday game an even bigger surprise.
From ValaRae on Facebook:
We took our boys to the jazz game. It was a special treat to learn that our beloved Justin Edwards was performing not once but twice!! Don’t worry he has not abandoned Weber. He is doing BOTH!! We are so proud of where your talent has taken you.
It was so tender to receive this text between performances from Justin: “I find it very fitting that my very first tumbling coach saw my very first tumbling pass in professional cheer. Thanks for being an awesome mentor Val!”
We love and miss you terribly!!! But are excited for your adventures ahead of you!!!
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