The Rise of Monica Aldama: From Navarro Coach to Executive Producer
If you’re a fan of cheerleading or have tuned into Netflix’s docuseries Cheer, you’re likely familiar with Monica Aldama. As the head coach of the Navarro College Bulldogs cheer team, Aldama not only showcased her unparalleled coaching skills but also became a household name. Now, she’s making headlines again with her new project that combines her love for cheerleading and the world of entertainment.
Who is Monica Aldama?
Monica Aldama has been synonymous with success in the cheerleading realm for nearly three decades. Leading the Navarro College cheer team, Aldama’s guidance resulted in an impressive tally of accolades: 16 National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) National Championships in the Advanced Large Co-Ed Division. Under her leadership, the team didn’t just win; they made history, claiming an additional 17th title and six Grand National Championships. Notably, her 2000 squad boasted an all-time high score at the NCA College Nationals before Grand National titles were established.
The Netflix docuseries Cheer, which premiered in January 2020, chronicled Aldama’s journey with her team as they strived for the 2019 National Championship. It provided viewers a glimpse into the rigorous demands of competitive cheerleading and the personal sacrifices made by both the coach and her athletes. Aldama retired from her coaching position at Navarro College at the end of the Fall 2023 semester, leaving behind a legacy that is hard to match.
Aldama’s New Show: Stumble
Transitioning from coaching to the entertainment industry, Aldama is stepping into an executive producer role for NBC’s upcoming sitcom, Stumble, set to premiere on November 7, 2023, at 8:30/7:30c. This mockumentary takes a comedic look at the ultra-competitive world of junior college cheerleading, reflecting Aldama’s rich experience in the field.
The series centers around Courteney Potter, played by Jenn Lyon, a coach who experiences a viral mishap that leads to her dismissal from her position as one of the most successful coaches in college cheer history. With the cameras rolling, Courteney attempts to rebuild her reputation while navigating her new role coaching a team of mostly inexperienced athletes at Headltston Junior College. This premise not only promises laughter but also echoes the real challenges faced by cheer coaches, offering an entertaining exploration of resilience and redemption.
The Star-Studded Cast
Stumble boasts an impressive cast, including Taran Killam from Saturday Night Live, who plays Courteney’s supportive husband, Boon E. Potter. The multifaceted Kristin Chenoweth, known for her remarkable theatrical career in Wicked, is also featured as Courteney’s rival and former assistant coach, Tammy Istiny. The show welcomes a fresh group of actors, including Ryan Pinkston, Jarrett Austin Brown, Anissa Borrego, Arianna Davis, Taylor Dunbar, and Georgie Murphy, promising a dynamic blend of humor and relatable character arcs.
Aldama’s Previous Appearances in Media
Following her rise to fame via Cheer, Aldama showcased her talents on yet another competitive platform: Dancing with the Stars. Partnering with the seasoned dancer Valentin Chmerkovskiy in its 29th season, she placed 10th, demonstrating her versatility beyond the cheer mat. In 2022, Aldama embraced her journey and insights further by publishing her memoir, Full Out: Lessons In Life and Leadership from America’s Favorite Coach, where she shares valuable lessons learned throughout her storied career.
With her new role on Stumble, Aldama’s influence on the cheerleading community continues to evolve, showcasing her strengths on and off the field while entertaining a new audience.
Watch Stumble
Stumble is set to premiere on NBC on November 7, 2023, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Peacock. Mark your calendars for this fresh and funny take on the cheerleading world, brought to life by a beloved coach who knows how to inspire resilience, both in her athletes and in her storytelling.