For Bristow High School junior Emmie Lou Dunbar, cheerleading is more than just spirit and smiles — it’s about strength, teamwork, and resilience. “People know cheer as being preppy, smiley, and shaking poms,” Dunbar said. “But we put in hours of hard work every day. We fall, get hurt, push through pain, and we get up and do the same thing over and over again.” That toughness has helped the Bristow cheer and stunt teams earn respect across the state, and Dunbar is determined to end this season on top. “This year I would like to end as state champions in Stunt,” she said.
A versatile athlete standing 5’3”, Dunbar plays several key roles on the mat. “I am a flyer, tumbler, one of the point jumpers, and sometimes a base,” she explained. Her adaptability and focus help keep the team balanced and precise — traits that are especially crucial when learning new skills. “When learning something new, I will go step by step,” she said. “I go to practice ready to learn and work hard. I step on to the mat thinking it’s a new day, a new start. I focus on every little thing to make sure it is perfect.”
That perfectionist mindset extends beyond practice hours. Dunbar puts in extra work both on and off the mat to sharpen her skills. “I will watch our film and practice at home,” she said.
Team unity has been another driving force in Bristow’s success this year. “My team’s biggest strength is pulling together and working as a team,” Dunbar said. “We’ve improved a lot in our attitudes and working as a team and not as individuals.” Their goals remain ambitious — and their mindset laser-focused. “Our goals are to win Stunt State, get difficult stunt skills, all-squad back handsprings, and more tumbling passes,” she said. “We are working on achieving these goals by going into practice every day determined to hit the skills we are working on.”
For Emmie Lou, one memory stands out above all others. “My favorite memory in a Bristow uniform was when we were announced as Regional Champions this year,” she said with pride. “We work really hard and dedicate most of our time to this sport.”
