By Derrick Smith

There is a lot of work and preparation that goes into being successful. This is true for all walks of life, including high school athletes. They know that if they want to be competitive and be victorious, they have to put in the time. Elli Jones says that it is a great feeling when the work pays off. 

“I have put in a lot of time and effort to get where I am today,” Jones said. “A lot of runs, work outs, and long practices are important. I work hard trying to get better. I have had some really great moments throughout my career, but I would have to say that the highlight moment for me was winning regionals my freshman year and placing third at state. It was a great feeling to know that what we did was a result of the hard work we put in.”

Elli is a sophomore at Perry High School, where she is a side base and front spot on the cheer squad. Outside of sports, she is also a member of the student council.

Jeanna Browne is the head coach of the Perry cheerleading squad and she says that Elli is a solid member of the team and is a great teammate.

“Elli is just a good kid,” Browne said. “She brings a lot of laughter to the squad. She works hard and is always kind and encouraging. She’s a pleasure to coach.”

There have been a few people that have had an impact on Elli’s life over the years and have helped shape her into the person and athlete that she is.

“My mom is my biggest role model,” she said. “She always believes in me and supports me no matter what. Jocelyn Alo, is definitely someone that I look up to. She just screams girl power and I’ve always wanted to be like her. She motivates me to be the best I can be. In the classroom, my sixth grade science teacher, Mrs O’Meally helped me to become a better student.”