Hadley Warden is only a freshman at Cushing High School, but she already approaches athletics with the drive and work ethic of a veteran competitor. A multi-sport athlete, Warden participates in cheer, softball, powerlifting, track and wrestling while working to make an impact in every uniform she wears.
For Warden, being successful begins with a simple commitment: show up, practice hard and compete with the desire to be the best version of herself. Whether she is on the softball field, in the weight room, on the track or supporting her school through cheer, she takes pride in giving full effort.
“Having the desire to be the best on the field, court, and track” is what it takes to be successful, Warden said.
Powerlifting has already provided one of the biggest moments of Warden’s young athletic career. Advancing to Junior High State gave her the chance to measure herself against strong competition and showed what consistent training can accomplish.
“Making it to Junior High State in powerlifting” has been the highlight of her career, Warden said.
Warden said Skiatook is the opponent she most enjoys beating in powerlifting because that program provides some of her toughest competition. She also sees track as a chance to challenge herself. As a sprinter, Warden knows improvement often means trying to beat the time she recorded in her previous race.
“In track, myself,” Warden said. “As a sprinter, you want to improve your time every time.”
One of Warden’s biggest influences is her father. She admires his toughness and hopes to carry that same strength into her athletic career and daily life. She also credits Cushing powerlifting coach Josh Encinas, known to her as Coach E., with pushing her to develop as an athlete.
“Coach E. pushes me to grow as an athlete, to be better,” Warden said.
Life as a five-sport athlete requires careful balance. Warden said some days include moving directly from softball practice to the spirit room for cheer practice. Even with those demands, she understands the importance of giving her best effort in the classroom and in competition.
“It is definitely a balancing act,” Warden said.
Warden also appreciates the hard work of her cheer teammates Noel, Brylen and Alli, who serve as her bases and back spot. While they may not always receive recognition, Warden knows their effort helps make the squad successful.
As she continues her Cushing career, Warden plans to wear every uniform with pride and keep working hard for CHS and her community.
