By Derrick Smith

Athletes put in a lot of time and work in order to be the best that they can be. Perry’s Atlanta Ward says that there are a lot of things that most people do not see happen but she is thankful for those around her.

“Honestly, it has taken a lot of time, stress, emotions,” she said. “But most importantly, it takes my teammates and the amount of encouragement they provide, and the family we create to succeed.”

Ward is a senior at Perry High School, where she is a multi-sport athlete. She serves as co-captain and side base on the cheer squad, while on the basketball court, she is a shooting guard. Atlanta also runs the 300-meter hurdles and relays on the track team. She has played basketball for twelve years, cheered for nine, and has run track for five years. 

Throughout her life, Atlanta has been influenced by a variety of different people, but she says that there is one person that has made the biggest impact. 

“My mom is definitely my biggest role model,” she said. “She works so hard to give us a good life and she provides us with anything we need. She loves her family with everything. Another person that has influenced me is Mrs. Schieffer, who is an English teacher at Perry. She has taught me how to care for others and how to be an awesome leader.”

One of the greatest rewards that an athlete can have is reaching a goal that they have set for themselves, which is something that Ward did.

“The highlight of my career would have to be making it to state in all three sports that I am involved with,” she said. “It felt good to make it there with my teammates and to see all of my hard work pay off.”

Away from sports, Atlanta is also involved with the Rotarian Club/Lions Club, the National Honors Society, Leadership, the Gifted and Talented Program, Student Council, and she is part of the Yearbook Staff.