By Derrick Smith

Individual success in sports requires that the athlete be mentally and physically prepared and ready to work towards their goal. In order for a team to achieve their goals, they have to do all the same work but also have to depend on their teammates and trust in the group. Georgia is a member of the Owasso cheer team and says that she and her teammates understand what it takes.

“It has taken years of hard work and dedication to end up where Owasso cheer is sitting today,” she said. “We just came off our fourth state title. None of it would have been possible without every member devoting their time and energy and having passion for the sport.”

A senior at Owasso High School, Benham is captain of the cheer squad. She first began cheerleading about thirteen years ago. Throughout her career, Georgia has had a lot of people that have influenced her life. But she says that there are two people that have made the biggest impact.

“The biggest role models in my life are my mom and coach Vanmeter,” she said. “My mother has consistently been my number one fan and has shown me so much love, support, and guidance. As for Coach Vanmeter, she is the reason I fell back in love with cheerleading and has pushed me farther than I ever thought I could go. She is a great coach and teacher and I am so thankful for her.”

Benham has made a lot of great memories during her cheer career, but she says that the success her team has experienced is the greatest.

“The highlight of my career has been winning four state titles,” she stated. “They were great experiences seeing all of our hardwork paying off and being able to share it with my awesome teammates was the best.”

Along with cheer, Georgia also serves on the Leadership Committee and is a member of the Senior Board and student council. Benham already has her sights set on post-high school plans.

“I plan to attend the University of Oklahoma and continue my cheerleading career.”