By Payton Moody
Cheerleading is not just about spirited chants and flashy routines; it’s a sport that demands
resilience, teamwork and unwavering dedication. Ada High School’s own Ava Thompson
embodies these qualities, making her a standout in the world of cheerleading.
Thompson attributes her growth and success in cheerleading to her coaches, Karry Griese
and Randi Wilkins. “They have both taught me to stand up for myself and push through any
hard times,” Thompson said.

But it’s not just the coaches who have made Thompson’s cheerleading journey special; it’s
also the teammates who have stood by her side. “All of my teammates push me to make me
a better cheerleader just as I do for them,” Thompson said. “But one specific teammate that
comes to mind is Brailey Mansfield. She is such a hard worker and never gives up, even if it
is something she doesn’t want to do.”
Thompson’s appreciation for mentorship extends beyond cheerleading. She recognizes the
influence of her favorite teacher, Mrs. Moiser.”She has taught me to be an all-around good
person and helps me whenever I need it,” Thompson shared.
To prepare for the upcoming season, Thompson and her team have focused on team
bonding. “Any chance we get to have a fun get-together or a little party with our team, we
try to take that time to do that,” she said.
Looking ahead, Thompson and her team aim to continually improve, both individually and
as a group. They’ve already competed in the performance state competition, achieving their
goal of doing better than the previous year. Next up is the game day competition in
November, where they hope to surpass last year’s performance.
One matchup Thompson was especially excited about was the Ada vs. McAlester game,
where her team secured a victory after several years.
As for her plans after high school, Thompson aspires to attend East Central University,
marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
With her unwavering determination and commitment to personal growth, Ava Thompson
continues to inspire both on and off the cheerleading mat.