Laurens County’s First Elite Cheer Program to Launch in Clinton

Laurens County is set to reach a new milestone in youth athletics with the launch of its first-ever elite competitive cheer program. Owned and operated by Rockey Gaines and Erin Patterson, the new program aims to provide high-level training and competitive opportunities for local athletes seeking to advance beyond recreational cheer.

Billed as more than just a gym, the program is designed to develop athletes both on and off the mat through disciplined training, teamwork, and character development. Organizers say their goal is to elevate the standard of competitive cheer in Laurens County and create a pathway for athletes to compete at an elite level without leaving the area.

“This program is built on experience, excellence, and a commitment to developing athletes both on and off the mat,” Gaines and Patterson said. “Our mission is to raise the standard of competitive cheer in Laurens County and create real opportunities for athletes to grow and compete at an elite level. This is more than a gym — it’s a movement.”

Erin Patterson, a Laurens native, brings years of experience in athletics, education, and leadership to the program. She currently serves as Head Cheerleading Coach at Laurens District 55 High School, where she is known for emphasizing strong fundamentals, high expectations, and character development alongside athletic performance.

As both a coach and educator, Patterson is passionate about shaping confident, disciplined young leaders. She believes success in cheerleading extends far beyond technical skill.

“Success in cheerleading goes beyond skill — it’s about character, consistency, and commitment,” Patterson said. “My mission is to create a positive, high-energy environment where athletes of all ages can grow in confidence, build lasting friendships, and discover their full potential both on and off the mat.”

Patterson and her husband, Tori, a high school baseball coach, are raising their three children in the same community that shaped their own lives — a connection she says fuels her commitment to investing in local youth.

Co-owner Rockey Gaines brings more than two decades of coaching experience across recreational, high school, collegiate, and All-Star cheerleading. Since beginning his coaching career in 2003, Gaines has trained athletes at every level of the sport, with a focus on technical precision, safety, and competitive excellence.

For 15 years, Gaines owned and operated Tumble Tech Elite, where he developed a successful program centered on skill progression, athlete development, and strong team culture. His experience includes athlete training, program development, staff leadership, and business operations.

Gaines is widely respected for his ability to break down advanced skills into safe, progressive training systems that help athletes build confidence and consistency.

“My coaching philosophy centers on discipline, character development, and preparing athletes to succeed both on and off the mat,” Gaines said. “We want to give Laurens County athletes the same opportunities that exist in larger markets — right here at home.”

Families interested in learning more are invited to attend a parent information meeting on Wednesday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at 30001 US-76 in Clinton at Dance South.

During the session, organizers will outline the program’s vision and philosophy, team structure and age divisions, practice schedules, season timeline, tryout process, tuition details, competition plans, and what distinguishes the program as “elite.”

The new initiative is aimed at athletes ready for advanced training and a more competitive environment, offering local families an option that previously required travel outside the county.

“If your athlete is ready for the next level, we invite you to come hear the vision and see what elite training in Laurens County truly looks like,” the organizers added. “The future of cheer in Laurens County starts now.”

For updates, program announcements, and additional details, families can follow Element Elite Cheer on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Elementelitecheer.

For many local families, the program represents a significant step forward in expanding youth sports opportunities while keeping talented athletes training close to home.