Athlete Interview

Someone you look up to; athlete, coach, family etc. and why?

I look up to one of my tumbling coaches, Casey Ballou. He is so emotionally intelligent and he is able to explain many aspects of tumbling and the mental aspect behind it. He is very talented as well so I know he is knowledgeable. Casey has known me since I was 13 and he’s always looking out for me, whether it’s on the mat or off. I also look up to him because he demonstrates all the characteristics of a positive leader and that is something I strive to be.

If you could give one piece of advice to younger athletes, what would it be?

I would tell younger athletes to never take it for granted. You can only do this sport majorly in your younger years because it can take a toll on your body. So I would say definitely take advantage of it and work hard at every practice because it can take you so far, even outside of cheer.

Do you have any odd pre-game rituals?

I do all my handshakes with my friends, before competitions I have to get Starbucks (a refresher and a bagel), I have to use the same hair clips, and say a prayer!

Are you more confident at Home or Away games and why?

I’m honestly confident in both but when I am at home games I am less afraid to be myself because I am more comfortable at alvirne!

What are your short-term and long-term aspirations?

I want to win states with alvirne!!! Also, for ECE, I want to win more competitions

How do you handle pressure during a critical game or performance?

I handle it pretty well! I do get nervous but as soon as the music comes on I’m locked in and remember what I’m there for!

What does teamwork mean to you, and share a meaningful leadership moment.

I lead all of my ECE Bomb Girls team last year as their captain! I pepped us up before fullouts and competitions to keep the energy and confidence high! I am also able to keep us all in check as a leader because I can help the coaches on an athlete to athlete level and relate to my teammates.

What would you say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses as an athlete?

My greatest strengths I think is my ability to take correction, be a good leader, and I’m very hardworking and dedicated to the sport!

How do you manage you athletic responsibilities with academics & personal commitments?

I definitely take advantage of all the time I have and get work done ASAP so I don’t spend more time procrastinating!

How do you handle constructive criticism & feedback from coaching staff?

I handle it well and try to take the corrections! If I don’t understand i definitely am not shy to ask questions!

What has been a big success moment so far, and how do you remember it making you feel?

My biggest success is probably just hitting at competitions because that is the main goal regardless of the placement, knowing it is what we came to do and coming off the Mat feeling like there is nothing else we could have done is probably the best thing, it makes me feeel so achieved and like I worked so hard for this moment!