By Payton Moody
Meet Jodi Emberson, a spirited cheerleader at Hugo High School, whose dedication and enthusiasm have made her a standout in the world of cheerleading. With a commitment to excellence both on and off the field, Emberson’s journey has been shaped by her coaches, teammates and a passion for making a positive impact.
Coach Kelsie stands out as Emberson’s favorite coach, someone who has left a mark on her cheerleading journey. “She has impacted me by pushing me to do my best and always being a positive influence,” Emberson said. Coach Kelsie’s guidance has not only improved Emberson’s skills but has also fostered her confidence and teamwork abilities.
Emberson’s appreciation for education reflects her sentiment toward her favorite teacher: “Mr. Morris was my math teacher for two years, and he influenced me by pushing me to do my best and also to help my classmates when they needed it.”
Recognizing the importance of preparation, Emberson understands the commitment of being a student athlete. “I have attended many cheer camps, including Cheer Hawaii, ECC, and OSU, to help me become a better athlete and to become the best I can for my teammates,” she said.
Life lessons imbibed from cheerleading resonate with Emberson on a daily basis. “Cheerleading has taught me teamwork skills, confidence, and dedication,” she said.
Among her cherished memories, Emberson holds reaching the state competition in high regard. “Making it to state was a defining moment for me. The hard work and dedication of the team paid off, and it’s a memory I treasure,” Emberson said.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Emberson expresses her ambitions. “I hope to accomplish the goal of reaching the state competition again,” she said.
Anticipation colors Emberson’s thoughts as she looks forward to their first game against Dickson. “I’m excited for our first game against Dickson,” she said. “It marks the start of a new journey for us.”
Beyond high school, Emberson’s aspirations reflect a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact. “I plan to go to college and become a neonatal nurse.”