There I was, standing on the red sideline at Javelina Stadium. This was a dream almost 10 years in the making, and I couldn’t be any more proud of myself. I couldn’t believe I was a college cheerleader at my dream school. I remember looking down at my yellow uniform fighting back tears, that I finally got to wear the famous “Javelinas” written in blue and gold across my chest. I then looked up at my family that was smiling so proudly and getting their cameras ready for the game that was about to start. This was the proudest moment of my entire life, everything I sacrificed for almost 10 years instantly paid off. Standing on the sideline, I see floods of blue and gold shirts of proud students, faculty, alumni and family. This is exactly what I had envisioned to see at the game.
I was about nine years old when I started cheerleading and never once have I looked back. Landing new skills, meeting new friends, winning championships and cheering on my school team are some of the best days of my life. These are the days that no one can take away from me, for they hold a special place in my heart.
When I started cheerleading I used to worry that it was too difficult or too time consuming. I used to always miss out on fun times at the movies with my friends, but I understood at a young age that school and cheerleading were my top priorities. Time management was essential to reaching my goals. I listened to my instinct, which led me to being a college cheerleader today. Sometimes I wish I could go back in time with the knowledge and experience I have now of being a college cheerleader. I would tell myself that I would accomplish things even bigger than cheerleading, like making the Honor Roll and getting to make an appearance on ESPN. That it would be my biggest honor to cheer for the best university in the entire world. I would simply tell myself to always work hard, be proud and not worry about the future, for it will become everything I’ve ever dreamed.
