At Durant High School, Shiloh Austin, a junior dynamo, takes center stage as a flyer for the cheer team. With a fervent spirit and a penchant for soaring heights, Shiloh embodies the essence of cheerleading.
Navigating the exhilarating world of cheerleading, Shiloh finds motivation in the camaraderie of her teammates and the guidance of her coaches. “My teammates and coaches motivate me to keep going and try new things every day, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” Shiloh shared.
Among the many influences, Shiloh finds inspiration in her parents and her faith. “My parents have both been there for me from the very beginning of cheer and will be there until my last game,” she said. Additionally, her spiritual connection serves as a guiding beacon, instilling trust in the Lord.
Amidst the supportive network, Mrs. LouAnn Lively emerges as a pivotal figure. “Mrs. Lively has definitely made the biggest impact on my life because she is just that type of person,” Shiloh expressed. Mrs. Lively’s welcoming demeanor and constant availability make her the go-to person in Shiloh’s life.
Cheerleading demands more than just physical strength—it requires patience. “It has taken a lot of patience to be successful in cheer.” The moments of doubt and the urge to quit were eclipsed by perseverance, leading to her success.
In the highlight reel of Shiloh’s cheer career, a particular moment stands out—weeks of hard work culminating into a flawless performance. “The highlight moment of my cheer career was when my team worked for weeks on our stunts, and we hit all of them during our pep rally. Everyone was very shocked.”
Beyond the cheerleading mat, Shiloh’s involvement extends to student council, FCA and media production, showcasing a multifaceted engagement with her school community.
For Shiloh, representing Durant High School is not just a privilege—it’s a realization of childhood dreams. “It’s a privilege to be representing my school and community when cheering because not everyone gets that opportunity,” she acknowledges, adding, “When I look back on myself when I was a little girl, I remember always wanting and hoping to be what I am now, and it makes me proud of myself.”
