This week, senior Hannah Adams has been named Cheer Athlete of the Week for her leadership, consistency, and ability to display E.A.S.T. ‘s core values of excellence, academics, spirit, and tradition. As a flyer and team role model, Adams has spent years building not only her skills, but also, a strong, supportive cheerleading program here at East.
Adams has been involved in cheerleading since a young age. “I have been cheering for a pretty long time,” Adams said. “I started off just doing sideline cheer for my brother, and then I got into the competitive, then school cheer.”
As a senior, Adams embraces her responsibility as a leader, especially for younger athletes. “I’m a flyer and a senior, so I’m more of an upper role model,” Adams said. “I have to build up the freshmen and make them excited.”
Cheer coach Katie Finin highlights her leadership and emotional awareness.”she is very good at talking positively about those around her and knowing how to motivate them. Finin Said. She’s really good at knowing what that person needs to hear in order to feel calm or confident.”
Cheer Coach Emily Clements, praises Adams’s growth over the years. “Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen her mature into a smart athlete and a really kind person. Clements said. She always puts the team first and is a great role model for younger athletes in the program.”
Adams is also known for her work ethic and mental preparation, especially on competition days. “I try to act like it’s a normal day,” Adams said. “I talk positive to myself, and if I think of a negative thing, I try to tell myself a positive thing after that.”
According to Finin, Adams consistently exemplifies Oswego East’s core values. “She has never been one to settle. She has high expectations for herself in cheerleading, academics, and life in general, and you can always count on her to go above and beyond.”
Her technical skills as a flyer also set her apart. “We’re really impressed by her flying skills,” Finin said. “She has great technique and athleticism, and we use her as an example for our up-and-coming flyers.”
Beyond performance, Adams’s mindset growth has made a lasting impression on her coaches. “The growth I’ve seen in Hannah’s mindset is something I’ll always be proud of,” Clements said. “Watching her work through frustration and pressure has been really impressive.”
When asked what she loves most about Oswego East cheer, Adams pointed to the team bond. “I think the love that we have for each other,” Adams said. “We’re all super tight, and we motivate each other through our love.”
As the team looks ahead to postseason goals, Adams remains focused on helping Oswego East succeed together. “This season, we’re really looking forward to going to state and trying to make it to day two,” Adams said.
With her leadership, determination, and heart for her teammates, Hannah Adams continues to leave a strong legacy within the Oswego East cheer program.
Written by junior Michelle Wannah. Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.