VYPE: What has your sport taught you that you use in your daily life?
Olivia: Cheerleading involves leadership. My role as a leader helps me improve in all areas of influence and communication with others. Since the sport focuses on encouragement and positivity, that confidence and optimism carry over to other areas of my life.
VYPE: Why are you passionate about your sport?
Olivia: The performance part of cheering drives passion and encourages the players and fans. Of all the sports I do, I feel most confident about cheering and count it as an honor to serve on the team.
VYPE: What is your favorite part about being on a team?
Olivia: I enjoy contributing and receiving in the team environment. It’s a chance to know others more personally. Our Drumright High School cheer squad is a fun atmosphere that pushes us to grow in the sport.
VYPE: Who inspires you and why?
Olivia: My youth pastor, Stacey Howard, inspires me. She desires to serve Jesus Christ and be a Godly example for young people. She is always loving to everyone, and her leadership encourages me. Pastor Stacey motivates me to build my faith in Christ and pursue God’s calling for my life.
VYPE: When and how did you first get into playing your sport?
Olivia: I started cheering in the seventh grade. My older sister, Keziah, was a high school cheerleader and inspired me to pick up the sport so I could also cheer in high school when I got older.
VYPE: What is the best advice that anyone has given you?
Olivia: The best advice I ever received was “always smile” from Coach Kirsten Barnett. A smile reflects personal passion and a good attitude.
VYPE: What is your favorite part about representing your high school as an athlete?
Olivia: I enjoy bringing excitement and spirit to Tornado football and basketball.
VYPE: What is your all-time favorite meal?
Olivia: I love eating seafood, but I especially enjoy sushi.
VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.
Olivia: I would like to thank all of my family for supporting me and attending games to watch me cheer. They are always there for me.
