VYPE: When and how did you first get into playing your sport?

Mary: I had planned to join cheer since the end of my seventh-grade year. I remember I was friends with some upperclassmen and was amazed to see everything that they were able to be involved in. So I stuck to that thought and at the end of my eighth-grade year, I went to tryouts and made it on the team.

VYPE: What has your sport taught you that you use in your daily life?

Mary: My sports have taught me dedication and responsibility. They give me the drive to complete every day with success

VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?

Mary: I would have to say one of the freshmen on my team has left the biggest impact. Her name is Cheyenne. At the beginning of the year, she had been a very shy and soft-spoken person. As the season has gone by she has done nothing but improve and impress. I am really excited to see her cheer career develop.

VYPE: What is your favorite part about representing your high school as an athlete?

Mary: My favorite part about representing my school has been to be recognized as the cheer captain for three years now, with one of those years having a co-captain. It’s not every day that someone gets to take on that opportunity.

VYPE: Why are you passionate about your sport?

Mary: I am passionate about my sport because it is astounding to see large groups of people gather together to support a team.

VYPE: What is your favorite part about being on a team? 

Mary: My favorite part about being on a team is sharing experiences and growth with other individuals.

VYPE: Which professional athlete do you look up to and why?

Mary: I have always looked up to Simone Biles. She shows effort and strength in her sport but she also enjoys her surroundings while competing.

VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade and why?

Mary: I would have to say Mr. Akers from Vanoss High School. I have had him for every year of high school. He has never failed to make time for students and is never absent. He truly takes all his time and gives it to the students. Not because he has to, but because he wants to.

VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.

Mary: I want to say thank you to coach Newby. She has dedicated time and effort toward me and the other girls. Her job is not easy and not just anyone would be able to handle it. I would also like to give a big shoutout to all of my teammates. They are the ones that help me grow and succeed in cheer.