By Derrick Smith

Athletes work hard at their sports so that they can be their best and compete at a high level. Spending time in the weight room, at the gym or field, and whatever it takes to prepare are all ways that athletes get ready. While working on the physical part, Madison Underwood says that there is a lot more that goes into being your best. 

“The most important thing is to show up to practice,” she said. “If you don’t put in the work, you won’t be able to get better. But you also have to pay attention in class and make sure you get good grades. If your grades fall, you won’t be able to compete.”

Madison is a sophomore at Enid High School where she is a member of the cheer team. This is her first year to be on the cheer team, but she says that her teammates have welcomed her and helped her along the way. 

“My teammates are awesome,” she said. “I definitely look up to each one of them. They are all super sweet and helpful and they are amazing people. I am thankful to be cheering next to them.”

Underwood says that she is also thankful for her coaches and the influence they had on her. “The coaches always make sure that we are getting done what we need to get done,” she said. “They also make sure that everything is perfect and put together. They always make sure that we have what we need in order to be our best.”

With this being her first season as a cheerleader, Madison says that one of her best memories so far has been getting to know her teammates better. Whether it is traveling to a game or hanging out away from cheer, she enjoys being a part of the team.