Junior Claire Wilson was named Athlete of the Week for the week of September 11. Wilson said, “When I found out I was chosen as athlete of the week, I was honored and happy that all my hard work had paid off.”

Claire has cheered for seven years and spends about 20 hours a week on average in the gym. She is a member of the football and competition cheerleading teams, which include weekly practices, games, and competitions.

The memory from her cheer career that stands out most to Wilson was when she heard “McIntosh” being named as the 2016 5A Cheerleading State Champions.

When it comes to cheering with the team, Wilson loves that the team is so close. Wilson said, “We are like a family and we always encourage and build each other up.”

Cheerleading has taught Wilson that hard work and discipline pays off when you give 100 percent. Wilson said, “It has brought me closer to my teammates and given me some of my closest friends.”

By the end of the season, Wilson hopes to contribute something new to the team. Wilson said, “I hope to get my full, so I can contribute a new skill to the team.”

Athlete of the Week awards are given out weekly at the school. Athletes are selected based on performances during the season.