GOOD HOPE, Ala. — Good Hope cheerleader Sammie Johns cheered up on varsity for the first time as an eighth grader last season and she talked about that experience, plus learning so much from a great group of girls.
“The experience was definitely amazing. At first, it was tough transitioning from middle school sports to high school, but I definitely learned many new skills and learned how to become an overall better cheerleader. The support of the girls on the team really make it worth while,” Johns said. “I’ve definitely learned a lot of valuable life lessons and skills from this amazing group of girls. It’s been a blessing getting to cheer under Brandy Lowe. They’ve definitely taught me to lift others up and that hard work pays off.”
Sammie has learned some things from coach Lowe and was introduced to the sport by some great people. She also talked about what she learned from the seniors and the rest of the upperclassmen.
“I have learned so much from Mrs. Lowe. She definitely has high expectations, but she is very supportive and makes sure we have the tools to succeed in cheer and life,” Johns said. “Lacy and Josh Stancil introduced the sport to me as a young girl and ever since then, they have supported me through every step. The seniors are definitely the backbone of any team. It’s an honor to be a part of their last season and to learn from their hard work and dedication. They have definitely been big role models in my life. They have taught me how to grow as a member of the team and how to grow as an individual.”
Good Hope’s cheer team made it to state this past season and Sammie talked a little bit about what that experience was like, plus what she learned from making it to state. She is already doing some training right now and will work on some more things over the summer to help get her ready for this upcoming year.
“To compete at such a high level was definitely thrilling and I am super grateful for the opportunity. I learned how to succeed under pressure and to leave everything I have on the mat.”
“I have already attended many stunt clinics with Alabama cheer, and I intend on improving my tumbling skills and becoming a better flyer over the summer.”
Sammie has a personal goal and team goal for this upcoming year, and she was so blessed to cheer with some great girls this past year. She also talked about some cheerleaders that she looked up to, plus the best advice that she was ever given.
“My team goal this year is to win state and my personal goal is to have my full (a tumbling pass) by the end of the season. To be honest, winning was the best. This team pulled together and became something great in spite of people saying that it was going to be a ‘rebuilding year’ and that was definitely a great feeling to be a part of,” she said. “I have been to Alabama games since birth and have always looked up to the Bama cheer team. As long as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a part of that team one day. The best advice that I was ever given was to never settle. My mom has told me this since birth and it has always reminded me to keep pushing and that I am capable of doing big things.”
Copyright 2023 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
