A diamond in the rough
Tina Burger has been described as the magic maker of the cheerleading squad world.
A former cheer girl herself, life has thrown her some curve balls. But through it all, she’s always found a way to stay involved with the sport that she loves.
She has been nationally recognised as a coach in cheer and gymnastics. She has written programs implemented by Gymnastics Australia and choreographed dances performed in China for Chinese New Year.
Photography: Marty Strecker Photography
Design: Redhotblue
In 2023, she remains nationally renowned, but now it’s for her skills behind the scenes.
Her workshop is in a two-bay shed in the family’s back yard.
Inside you’ll find metallics, sequins and chevron prints as far as the eye can see. You’ll also find a wealth of knowledge, an advocate, advise and your biggest supporter.
Her made-to-order squad hair bows are a competition and club must-have. First known nationwide for her coaching, NOW she’s renowned nationwide for her Bows,
Australia’s hottest Cheerleading accessories.
It’s a family affair, as working tirelessly alongside her is her faithful and beloved Mum.
Tina Burger of Tina’s Bows and Accessories is a typical story of a hidden gem, a diamond in the rough according to her nomination. “When identifying a single phrase to describe my experience with Tina, my mind inevitably concludes that she is “a blessing in disguise.”
“Tina is the perfect psychological reinforcement with her optimistic vitality and consistent support.
“ Her advice is tailored to the cheer squad performers personal aspirations where she gives them one-on-one suggestions, I am confident cannot be found elsewhere, “her nominator shared.
Dancing and performing has been an influential part of Tina’s life, starting with dance lessons as a little girl, a highlight performing on TV as part of Expo 88.
At 15 she left school and was employed at a dance studio, where she was taking lessons.
Tina said she learnt so many lessons through dance from believing in yourself and auditioning for performances sometimes being knocked back on the first audition to picking herself up and going again.
Hidden behind her smile though… was a secret, one that she kept secret for a very long time.
From 15 – 17 Tina was sexually abused many times.
She didn’t let that darkness beat her though, she continued to shine. She taught dance, cheerleading and gymnastics too, often juggling multiple jobs.
Tina excelled at coaching, she was doing what she loved… until she began to suffer chronic pain ending in having her back fused.
Her goal was to dance again, but that seemed like a dream seeing as she couldn’t even walk up and down the stairs. She was depressed, crying in her room, hating herself. But decided, she had to do something. So she practiced what she preached, got herself up, put on her big girl pants, and never gave up.
It’s been a journey, but with the help of her amazing family, a move home to Mackay and her pure grit and determination, she now contributes to cheer and supports dancers… just in a different way.
Now Tina makes thousands of bows and feels so honoured as it keeps her in the sport she loves. Another nominator said Tina has helped support many young people achieve their goals. She is always willing to share her tremendous knowledge with others so they can further their dreams.
“Everything she makes is designed by her and she has mastered her craft with perseverance and determination. She is a true inspiration and has a heart of gold,” they said.