Katelen Chapman is an upcoming junior at Bristow High School. She participates in varsity cheer, the high jump in track and field, and is an officer in FCCLA. This next year will be her second with Bristow Varsity Cheer. After seeing one of her best friends participating and loving it during her freshman year, she decided to give it a try. Her favorite sports moment so far has been competing with her team for a state title. “The energy and teamwork made it unforgettable,” Katelen says. Her team has won two state runner-up titles since she’s been participating. Her favorite part about cheer is the bond that she has with her team and how strong they are when they work together.
Katelen’s biggest positive impact has been her cheer coach, Coach Quila Cole. “She pushes us to do our best on and off the mat, and she really cares how we grow as people,” Katelen says. Her biggest role model has been Jesus Christ, because “He set the perfect example to follow,” she says.
In her free time, Katelen likes to spend time with the people that she loves and working on her tumbling. Her favorite subject in school is math, because she enjoys working through challenges and solving problems. Her favorite teacher is Miranda Groom. “She’s more than just a teacher; she connects with all of her students on a personal level,” Katelen says. After high school, she plans to work to acquire her LPN and then move on to acquire her RN.
Sports have taught Katelen the true meaning of selflessness, heart, integrity, and perseverance. To be a great athlete, Katelen says that you need to be coachable and to smile while you do it. Her advice to other athletes is “to stay consistent, stay humble, and don’t let one bad day define your progress.”
By Ariel Casida
