By Derrick Smith

Athletics allow you to learn more than just how to play the sport. You also learn other things about life that you can carry with you long after you graduate high school and your playing days are over. Gabi Nelson said that attending a cheer camp allowed her to realize that.

“Going to my first big cheer camp my freshman year really showed me how many lessons and life skills you learn from being a cheerleader.,” she said. “Waking up early in the morning to learn material doesn’t sound like the best way to spend a week of your summer but being surrounded by people that push and support you really makes you realize how the team is more like a family.”

Gabi is a senior at Enid High School, where she is a member of the cheer squad. She has been a part of the cheer squad since she was in the seventh grade. 

There have been a few people that have helped Nelson become the person and the athlete hat she is today.
“My cheer coach, Ericka Nault, has taught me most of what I know and helped me find my love for cheer,” she said. “She is a great coach and a great role model.  Another person that has made an impact on me would have to be my favorite teacher, Lindan Outhier. She has taught me to always try my hardest and be the best that I can be. “

Becoming the best athlete that can take a lot of hard work and determination.  But Nelson says that the hard work will pay off.
“I have put in a lot of practice with my team and by myself,” she stated. “Taking tumbling classes has also helped me improve my skills and abilities.”

Away from athletics, Nelson is involved with different clubs.

“Last year I was in a competitive cheer team through Spirit Express and qualified to compete at the Worlds competition in Orlando,” she said. “Cheer has always been something that I love being a part of, I enjoy getting the crowd involved to cheer on our teams.: