When people describe me, they use expressions like high-energy, fun loving, empathetic, and supportive. Thus cheerleading is etched into my soul. My life has been full of big bows, loud chants, and airborne adrenaline as my body sored through the air. Yet being part of my high school team ended up being so much more than uniforms and performances. My teammates and I started out as friends, and became sisters. We rely on each other physically to hold up our stunts, but emotionally for all the ups and downs that go with cheer and life. Whether we win or lose a game, stumble on the mat, or have a crisis in our personal lives, my cheer sisters are always there to support each other. It's an unbreakable family bond that only cheerleaders fully understand. While cheer has given me friends for life, it has also made me the person I am today. Cheer has shown me the value of community. We strive to make our world a better place. We encourage our team from the sidelines, but the positivity reaches well beyond the field. As a Millard South cheerleader, I have had the opportunity to coach United cheer. The United cheerleaders have different abilities, and each has something special to share with the world. Whether it's shaking poms to endless giggles or jumping excitedly for the crowd, these cheerleaders have a tremendous joy within that shines on the gym floor. It was an honor to work with them, and has influenced how I view the world. One example occurred in my English class. We were assigned a project in which we were to make a rap song and present it. A student in my class had differentiated needs and seemed very anxious about performing his rap. Once it was his turn, he got up in front of everyone and froze. Other students started snickering, and that only made it worse. I decided to join him. We performed his rap together, and he successfully finished. I was glad to help, but later that evening my teacher emailed my mom. She explained what occurred in class, and told my mom that I would never know the impact I made on that student. Cheer equates to inspiration, and I strive to reflect that in every aspect of my life. As part of the Millard South cheer team, we received many honors and experiences beyond the gym walls. We were named Class A Nebraska State Champions in 2023 and State runner-ups in 2024. We were also awarded 1st place at the Crete Cheer Championships and the Team Academic Excellence Award 2024. During 2023 UCA camp our team qualified and then performed during halftime of the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida, and I was asked to return as a UCA staff member for the 2024 summer. Being a cheerleader has provided me with numerous opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and pushed me to work harder on my studies. Cheer is my heart and soul!