In high school athletics, there are athletes who stand out not only for their prowess on the field but also for their remarkable journey. Kimmy Young, a dedicated cheerleader at McAlester High School, is one such athlete whose passion for her sport and academics shines brightly. 

When asked about her favorite coach, Young shared her admiration for Coach Tamara, the team’s tumbling coach. “I have learned so much and gained so many new skills in such a short amount of time thanks to her!” Young said.

In sports, camaraderie and teamwork play a significant role. Young pointed to her teammate Brynlee Ham as an inspiration. “She has always been kind and supportive towards me, and she’s a great leader for the entire team,” Young said. 

Athletes often find mentors beyond the field, and in Young’s case, it was Coach Burgess, who also happened to be her track coach. “He would always push me every day to work hard in track and maintain good grades,” Young shared. Coach Burgess’s influence extended beyond the track, demonstrating the power of educators in students’ lives.

Young recognizes the importance of preparation in achieving success. In the off-season, she has dedicated herself to enhancing her flexibility, a vital component of cheerleading. This commitment to continuous improvement reflects her dedication to her sport.

Beyond the skills and athleticism, cheerleading has taught Young valuable life lessons: “My sport has taught me to be kind and patient with everyone, as you don’t know what people are dealing with outside of their school or sports life.” 

One of Young’s fondest memories in cheerleading is the time spent at camp. The experience provided her with the opportunity to bond with her teammates, creating lasting memories and strengthening team unity. Looking ahead, Young and her team hope to accomplish gaining more skills as a group, recognizing that their team is still relatively new to cheerleading.

As for her plans beyond high school, Young aspires to attend Oklahoma State University and pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Her dedication and hard work, honed through her experiences in cheerleading and her other activities, are sure to serve her well in achieving this goal.