When you hear the word “cheerleader,” the words “happy,” “peppy,” and “outgoing” most likely come to mind. You think of a group of girls strutting into school in their tight uniforms and thinking that they own the school. For me, this was not the case. I started cheerleading when I was six years old and continued through senior year of high school, but I was there for the sport rather than the popularity.

Since I was a kid, I was extremely shy. My parents would lecture me time and time again to say hi to everyone I knew when seen in public and I would never participate in my classes in fear of talking in front of the class (Ok, both of these scenarios may or may not still happen). Therefore, most people would not expect cheerleading to be the sport for me.

I tried gymnastics, dance, softball, soccer, basketball, tennis, and swim, but none of them compared to the passion I had for cheer.

Cheerleading has allowed me to be pushed out of my comfort zone. While I am still extremely reserved, I have gained confidence, determination, and spirit all while creating some of my favorite memories.

I’m forever thankful that I was able face the uneasiness at six years old to begin cheerleading and that I had the resilience to continue for so long. Spending your whole elementary, middle, and high school years dedicated to one sport, no matter how good you are, is something to be extremely proud of.