Sports
Three WC cheerleaders sign collegiate scholarships
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Three Warren Central High School cheerleaders signed scholarships on Wednesday to continue cheering on the collegiate level.
Aaleiya Williams:
Aaleiya Williams signed with Mississippi College earlier today as graduation approaches.
Williams started cheering at the age of five after watching stunts on YouTube. She also participated in gymnastics before entering junior high and high school, where cheerleading became a significant part of her life.
“One of my fondest memories was walking back from camp in my senior year with my team, screaming ‘Party in the USA.’ That song was like our anthem,” said Williams.
Williams was honored with the Most Spirited Award and the Always Laughing Award.
During her senior year, Williams was coached by Cameron Coon, who had a positive influence on the young athlete.
“Cheering under her was amazing because she is so caring,” Williams said.
After careful consideration, Williams concluded that MC was the best fit for her.
“Many people thought I chose MC for the scholarship, but I’m going because it’s a Christian private school, and I want to uphold my values,” Williams explained.
Williams expressed her gratitude to some of her biggest supporters who have stood by her over the years.
“I want to thank Shannon Bagley, Scarlett, the Balsamo family, the Whitfield family, Cameron Coon, and my fellow cheer seniors from the 22′-23′ year,” Williams said.
Aaleiya, daughter of Lisa Williams, will pursue a major in biology.
Anna Richardson:
Anna Richardson has chosen Pearl River Community College as her next destination.
Richardson started her cheer journey under the guidance of Johnathan Harrison and Mason Pennaman before progressing to junior high and high school.
While at WC, Richardson found Coach Cameron Coon to be an exceptional mentor, just like many other athletes over the years. One of her most memorable experiences was cheering at nationals this year, marking her return since ninth grade.
“Cheering under Coach Cameron was fantastic. She was always supportive, understanding, and I never had a bad moment with her,” Richardson expressed.
After witnessing PRCC’s national championship victory, Richardson became convinced that PRCC is the best place for her to pursue a national title.
“They triumphed over 15 teams, and I want to become a national champion,” Richardson stated.
Mason Pennamann, Johnathan Harrison, and Coach Cameron were among the individuals Richardson thanked for their support throughout her cheer career. She also expressed gratitude to her parents and friends Hayley and Aaliyah.
Anna is the daughter of Jamie and Terri Richardson and she will be majoring in nursing.
Payton Feagin:
Payton Feagin has signed with Northwest Mississippi Community College.
In fifth grade, Feagin’s mom, Cameron Coon, who is also her coach, introduced her to cheerleading, and it has remained a significant part of her life as she entered high school.
“I love the sideline aspect of the sport and celebrating after winning games,” Feagin shared.
One of Feagin’s favorite memories was helping her squad defeat the only other Level 5 team in Mississippi.
Cheerleading has become a special part of Feagin’s life due to the countless hours she has dedicated to preparing for competitions and games.
“To me, cheering means a lot of concussions,” Feagin joked. “It involves hard work, but it’s incredibly fun, and we’re like a family.”
Feagin fell in love with Northwest Mississippi CC after attending a clinic, thanks to her friend Presley Holloway, and decided it would be her next destination.
While Feagin acknowledges her own hard work, she doesn’t hesitate to credit her mom, who played an instrumental role in her cheerleading journey.
“Though we had our back-and-forths during coaching sessions, she has always been my biggest supporter and cheerleader,” Feagin expressed.
Payton is the daughter of Cameron and Brian Coon, and Travis and Katrina Feagin. She plans to major in law with aspirations of becoming a district attorney.
