Interview with SHS Cheerleader Maya Preston
Welcome back to the final feature of the Fall Edition of Off the Reels! This week, I got the inside scoop on school spirit and cheerleading.
Meet SHS Cheerleader Maya Preston…
Cheer story:
Ten years ago, Maya’s mom encouraged her to start tumbling classes. That eventually led to cheerleading, and the rest is history. Maya is now a senior in high school, and she cheers for Varsity Competition, Varsity Gameday, and Sideline Football.
What it takes to be a cheerleader:
Being a cheerleader is more than just practicing the cheers that hype up the fans on Friday nights. Maya explained to me that cheerleaders have to be very conditioned. In addition to practices, Maya and her teammates attend tumbling and flexibility classes to enhance their skills.
Maya’s favorite sport to cheer for:
With no hesitation, Maya told me that her favorite sport to cheer for is football. She loves cheering in front of all of the fans and connecting with the student section. She said the environment is “just really energetic.”
How Maya prepares for competitions:
Maya does what most athletes do in preparation for a competition: she listens to music with her teammates. Additionally, she told me something most people don’t think about, but that definitely contributes to the success of her team. Before going out on the floor, Maya and her teammates “give each other positive affirmations” to boost confidence and excitement levels. This is a great way to build team unity and hype each other up!
Maya’s favorite cheer memory:
In her more than ten years of cheerleading, Maya has made countless amazing memories, but nothing tops winning Nationals. She said, “it was just a different experience.” As a freshman, Maya was part of the Panther squad that won Nationals in 2019. The Panthers traveled to Florida, met new people, competed against different teams than normal, and brought home the dub! With these amazing memories, it is no surprise that Maya’s favorite competition to cheer at is Nationals.
Something most people don’t know about cheerleading:
Maya said most people don’t know that cheerleading requires lots of strength and athletic ability. You have to be in shape and well-conditioned to be a cheerleader. Cheerleading requires strong arm and leg muscles to support your body through all the motions and tumbling. Tumbling is no walk in the park either. From those first classes a decade ago until today, Maya has dedicated extensive time and effort to be able to tumble the way she can now.
Maya’s plans after high school:
After graduating this spring, Maya plans to further her academic career. Her first choice is Ohio University where she wants to study Education.
Maya’s advice for cheerleaders:
Maya’s advice highlights some of the most important things about being an athlete: working hard and being a team player. In Maya’s words, “always give one hundred percent... help others when they need it; you never know what someone’s going through.” Win or lose, leave it all on the floor, and be there for your team. Winning is bound to come naturally if you make this your mindset.
Comments
Post a Comment