Showing up for others has become one of the most important lessons McAlester High School junior Emery Fields has taken from athletics.

Fields competes in varsity cheer and track, two sports that challenge her and give her opportunities to grow alongside her teammates. Her proudest athletic memory came when the McAlester cheer team competed at nationals at Walt Disney World.

“I am most proud of competing at nationals in Disney World with my team,” Fields said.

The experience was memorable because she shared it with the teammates who had worked beside her. Fields said cheer has taught her that being a good teammate means remaining dependable and making sure others know they have her support.

“My sport has taught me to show up for my teammates,” Fields said. “This has helped me to become better in friendships, my sports and at work.”

Coach Neill has played an important role in helping Fields develop that mindset. Fields appreciates the way Neill encourages her to keep trying, even during moments when she doubts herself or does not feel like the best person in the room.

“She has motivated me to push myself in many ways,” Fields said. “Although I might not be the best, she has always made me want to try. She has greatly impacted who I am today, and she has shaped my mentality both in sports and my personal life.”

Fields looks up to teammate Cambree Langford, whose kindness and welcoming personality have shown her what leadership can look like.

“She is always kind to me and is so welcoming to everybody,” Fields said. “She embodies a leader in so many ways.”

Away from competition, Fields is involved in National Honor Society and has completed hours of community service through cheerleading, the Miss McAlester Organization and Beta Iota, a nonprofit philanthropic group. Her service reflects advice she tries to carry into every part of her life: Treat people the way you would want to be treated.

“It is a very popular piece of advice, but it doesn’t seem to be applied as often as it should,” Fields said. “This advice reminds me that everybody is human and deserving of respect.”

Fields’ favorite part of McAlester is growing up alongside friends she has known for years. Those lasting relationships, along with the support she receives from family and friends, have made accomplishments more meaningful.

“They truly show up for me in every way, and I am very lucky to have them,” Fields said. “I also would love to thank my friends who come support me in all of my events.”