When athletes put on their uniforms, they become more than just athletes. They are a representation of their school and community. As a multi-sport athlete, Jaycee Cross knows who she is competing for.
“It means a lot to me to be able to represent Chandler positively in any way I can,” Cross said. “It means that I’m not just playing for myself, but for everyone who supports me and believes in me.”
Jaycee is a senior at Chandler High School, where she is a member of the cheer and basketball teams. Outside of athletics, she is also involved in the Business Professionals of America, PSI, Positive Peers, Rotary Club, and Gifted and Talented.
In order to be at her best in her sports, Jaycee has invested a lot of time and effort over the years.
“To be successful, it has taken a lot of determination and hard work,” she said. “Having the willingness to push myself even when it is tough and I am not in the mood to is what makes you successful. Learning how to properly handle and adjust to setbacks or injuries is extremely important to me because it forms a tough and successful mindset.”
There have been people in her life who have helped shape Cross into the person she is and will become. She has a couple that have been impactful.
“My biggest motivation and influence is my mom,” she stated. “She has shown me what hard work and determination looks like by the way she takes care of me and my family and never gives up no matter what. She has always supported me and pushed me to be the best in not only cheer but also life. My high school AP English teacher, Mrs. Letherwood, has had the biggest impact on my life. She has taught me so much about life and has always believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. She was always more than just a teacher to me, but always a friend.”
