Bailey Caldwell has spent four years cheering, but her role at McAlester High School goes beyond stunts and sideline spirit. The junior serves as a base and co-captain, helping lead a team that she said means a lot to her.
“I did gymnastics as a kid and always loved flipping my body around, so when seventh grade cheer season came up, I was ready to do it,” Caldwell said.
One of the most rewarding parts of cheer, she said, is inspiring younger girls.
“I enjoy all the little girls looking up to me and wanting to be just like me when they are older,” she said.
Caldwell said her favorite memories with McAlester cheer have come at camp, where the team spends time together and builds lasting bonds.
“My favorite memory with McAlester cheer is going to cheer camp, staying in rooms together, and making lifelong memories,” she said.
She said the hardest part of cheer is mental: knowing she can do a skill but feeling scared to throw it.
“The most challenging part of cheer is knowing you have a skill but being too scared to throw it,” Caldwell said. “I overcome that by listening to my teammates when they encourage me and remind me I can do it.”
Caldwell said she tries to bring that same support to others.
“I motivate my teammates by encouraging them and always having something positive to say,” she said.
Outside cheer, Caldwell stays busy with softball, track, FFA and Girl Scouts. Her favorite part of a routine is the crowd involvement.
“I love hearing how loud and supportive our community is,” she said.
Her sophomore year at NCA camp brought special recognition, including All-American, Top All-American and the “Pin It Forward” award.
After high school, Caldwell plans to earn a master’s degree in psychology and become a children’s counselor. She is open to cheer in college but is not sure yet.
For Caldwell, cheer has shaped how she sees herself and others. “It’s about being better than you were yesterday,” she said. “Cheerleading has taught me to believe in myself, push past my limits, and support others both on and off the mat.”
