Cheerleading has given McAlester High School junior Keeley Hayes opportunities to compete, travel and represent her school, but some of what she values most has come from learning how much teammates depend on one another.
Hayes is in her third year as a flyer for McAlester varsity cheer and has been involved in the sport since seventh grade. Five years later, cheer remains one of her favorite things to do, along with dancing at Angie’s Dance Plus.
Some of her favorite memories have come during the past two years, as McAlester qualified for state in consecutive seasons. Another came when MHS Cheer traveled to Orlando, Florida, for Nationals as a Spirit Team. The team made the trip alongside MHS Pom, giving Hayes the opportunity to compete and experience the event with other McAlester students.
“It was an amazing team bonding experience, and I cannot wait to go again this upcoming January,” Hayes said.
Competition has given Hayes plenty to celebrate, but cheer has also helped her develop qualities that matter away from the mat.
“An important lesson that cheer has taught me is how to communicate, trust, and work together with a team,” Hayes said. “These qualities have helped me become a better person by being more reliable, open to new ideas, and overall better as a teammate.”
Senior Cambree Langford has provided an example of those qualities. Hayes admires the encouragement and positivity Langford brings to the team.
“When I am having a rough day, she always notices and puts a smile back on my face,” Hayes said.
Hayes has also been influenced by Mrs. Williamson, her sixth- and seventh-grade writing teacher. Writing was not something Hayes initially enjoyed, but Williamson changed her perspective. When Williamson became the yearbook teacher, Hayes joined the class in eighth grade.
“She was an amazing teacher, and an even better friend,” Hayes said.
Outside of cheer and dance, Hayes is involved in National Honor Society, Native American Club and Indian Education Honor Society. She is also in her first year of the Biomed program at Kiamichi Tech Center and is involved with DC Youth.
Faith holds an important place in her life. Hayes considers giving her life to Christ one of her proudest personal accomplishments. She also carries the advice found in Matthew 6:34: “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Hayes enjoys McAlester, from the Buffalo statues throughout town to its Italian food. Roseanna’s is a favorite, particularly for its meatballs and chicken parmesan.
Hayes credits her mother with having the greatest influence on the person she is becoming.
“I would like to thank my mom for absolutely everything she has done for me, even though a ‘thank you’ won’t ever describe how truly grateful I am for her,” Hayes said. “I wouldn’t be as accountable, authentic, and loving if it wasn’t for my momma.”
After high school, Hayes plans to attend Northeastern State University and pursue a career in optometry.
