1997 - 2006
Victor Caballero completed a distinguished 35 year career in gymnastics and cheerleading September 2006 when he announced his retirement from ASI Gymnastics. He enjoys working part time with the Juvenile Probation office in Dallas County where he previously served as an officer of the court for more than 35 years. Victor often commented on the stark difference between the kids in the gym and at the detention center and how the gym gave Victor much needed perspective on youth.
Mr. Caballero was born in Corpus Christi, Texas in 1947 and attended Roy Miller high school where he excelled in sports, academics, and of more importantly personality.
He was the first member of his family to attend college. Victor attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. He competed in gymnastics. He was also a cheerleader.
Victor was one of the earliest members of the National Cheerleading Association staff and traveled the country with Lawrence Herkimer teaching cheerleading at camps during the early seventies while in college and even after graduation. Mr. Caballero attended summer workshops in Oklahoma to develop routines to be used throughout NCA camps each year.
In 1972 Mr. Caballero received a degree in Elementary Education and Physical Education with minors in Biology and Psychology. He never forgot that he was the first in his family to receive a college education. Victor dedicated the majority of his life to helping his family, nieces, nephews, and cousins attend college. Mr. Caballero taught elementary school in Pearland, Texas for two years prior to accepting a job as a Juvenile Probation office with Dallas County in 1974. While teaching elementary school, he continued working with NCA camps during summer and winter breaks.
During the early tenure with Dallas County Mr. Caballero worked with NCA and the fledgling UCA teaching cheer camps. In 1980 Victor was asked to join Half In Half Out as a boy’s gymnastics coach and a cheerleading coach in the evenings. What started as a very minor commitment soon grew into a passion!
In the fall of 1997 “The Patron” as Victor calls Mr. Holley purchased Half In Half Out and Mr. Caballero joined the ASI Gymnastics Familia. He built a staggering clientele of cheerleaders in the Carrollton and Plano area and had a reputation that stretched to Universities across the country.
Victor’s consistent positive attitude and “you can do anything” spirit influenced thousands of students, coaches, parents and everyone he came in contact with. Many students simply succeeded due to the confidence Victor gifted them more than any other physical gift he bestowed upon them. As his students age, the physical attributes may diminish but the gift of Victor will never leave them. For his overwhelming enthusiasm, positive attitude, and being the ultimate cheerleader for everyone he meets Victor Caballero is a most deserving member of the ASI Hall of Fame.
Congratulations Mr. Caballero.