“Cheer is definitely my passion, this is all I know how to do, it’s more than a hobby and more than just a sport. This is my life.” –Annaliese King 17 years old, SHS senior.

How long have you been cheerleading and what made you want to join cheer?

I have been cheerleading for 11 years and there was a flyer sent out in class.

How often do you cheer?

During summer, I practice two days a week; during competition season I practice anywhere from 4 to 5 days a week.

What have you won?

Almost all local competitions including world and national

What are your most and least favorite parts about cheer?

My favorite thing about cheer is life lessons I have learned from great coaches. My least favorite thing is when practice doesn’t go well.

What do you want to learn?

I want to continue to learn how to teach others what I have grown to love.

Who has supported you throughout these 11 years?

My coaches Jason, Ashley, and my mom have helped me succeed.

What do you do to warm up?

Usually we run one mile, stretch, tumble, stunt, and also do 15 minutes of conditioning.

What are your abilities/skills?

My highest ability is called a round-off back hand-spring layout. I am a level 4-5 currently.

What has happened to you physically in the sport?

Two years ago I rolled my ankle. I have also torn some ligaments in my ankle, damaged my knees, fractured my nose, and my meniscus is tearing. It really takes a toll on your body.

When times get difficult, what do you do to keep pushing yourself to keep going?

My coach relies on The Pyramid of Success by John Widden. We have a poster with the quote “to get what you never had, you must do what you have never done.”

Do you love your team?

Yes, it’s a way to create bonds that are really indescribable; they’re my family

What is the most memorable thing that has ever happened?

We won back to back world championships. This was surprising because our team was struggling which made the journey a lot harder.