Anna Phillips is a junior at Chandler and member of the Lion cheer squad. Phillips fulfills the base role on the team and loves to compete and support Chandler in their activities and competitions. For Phillips there are certain elements that go into having an impact in cheer and being an effective competitor.

 “I think what makes a cheerleader a cheerleader is to have a positive demeanor and a dedication to the team,” Phillips said.

One part about cheerleading that Phillips enjoys is building stronger bonds with her friends outside of the classroom. Phillips also likes getting to learn and incorporate new routines and techniques into cheer.

“My favorite aspect of the sport is learning new routines and stunts and growing stronger friendships,” Phillips said.

Phillips began cheer at an early age after being inspired in elementary school attending local high school events. Phillips knew that she wanted to participate as well and quickly found a way to get involved.

”I started cheer in second or third grade with Chandler Youth Organization,” Phillips said. “The high school cheerleaders always looked like they were having fun on the sidelines and I wanted to cheer like them.”

This school year Phillips has goals for herself and her team both in competition and in the classroom.

“My junior year goals are to maintain my 4.0, to get stronger with my stunt group, and make it to nationals with the Business Professionals of America,” Phillips said. 

When Phillips needs support, advice, or encouragement she often turns to family and friends and is thankful for all of the wonderful people in her life.

”I look up to a lot of people, I look up to my parents, my sister, my friends,” Phillips said. “Almost everyone I meet has an impact on my life and how I may see things.”

One aspect of cheer Phillips enjoys is when Chandler gets to compete against schools from all across the state.

”I am super excited for stunt season. I enjoy the challenge of competing against higher class schools,” Phillips said. “Chandler is 3A and the schools we compete with are typically 5A.”

As Phillips continues her junior year of high school she is already planning ahead for the future. Phillips said she plans to attend Oklahoma State University where she wants to major in Elementary Education.