Cheer may look effortless to the crowd, but for Hugo senior Kayla Freeman, it’s all about the hours of dedication behind the scenes. “One of my personal goals is to better myself in tumbling and challenge my stunting skill,” Freeman said.
Her commitment reflects the spirit of the entire team this year. “The team morale has been better this year than ever before and I’m excited to see all the amazing things we can accomplish,” she said. That positivity has fueled major growth. “The best improvement my team has made so far is our drive and dedication to place at state.”
The Lady Buffs aren’t shy about their biggest target either. “The team wants to take state!” Freeman said. “We are working to achieve them by three-hour practices and having a more advanced stunting routine!”
That hard work is possible because of how connected the squad has become. “I would definitely say our team’s biggest strength is how cohesive we are,” she said. Freeman plays a big role in that bond as a flyer. “I am a flyer for co-ed, and I am also a flyer for regular stunts.”
Tough routines don’t intimidate her either. “When learning a challenging routine, I think to myself that this is what is going to make me better for my team!” she said. Endurance is another focus. “When we get our routine and we know it is going to take endurance, we start running a mile before every practice. Running a mile and then practicing causes us to be used to being tired while performing.”
Faith and mindset drive her performances. “My mind set when I am about to cheer is I know I’m doing the best I can, and God is proud of me no matter what.”
Looking ahead, she wants to leave behind more than routines. “I hope people remember me when I graduate as a person that did not judge when they needed help and went above and beyond to make people feel accepted.”
For Freeman, those lessons will carry on long after Hugo High. “I plan to attend a college. I’m undecided on which and become a dermatologist!”
