For Mannford High School senior Bradlee Koehn, cheerleading is more than a sport. It is an opportunity to build strength, trust teammates, and grow through challenges.
Koehn serves as a main base in coed stunts and also works as a backspot. Both roles require communication, technique, and physical strength, and stunting has become Koehn’s favorite part of the sport.
“The stunting is the best part of cheer,” Koehn said. “It is like weightlifting while having fun.”
The preparation begins well before the school year starts. Koehn attended summer practices and camp while also taking time to study stunting techniques independently.
“We had practice and camp over the summer, but I do watch a lot of videos on hand grips and techniques for stunting,” Koehn said.
That commitment to growth has shaped Koehn’s message for other athletes trying to master difficult skills or overcome setbacks.
“Never give up on something you are wanting to get better at,” Koehn said.
Koehn said several people have made a lasting impact during high school. Bobbi has been an inspiration because of her resilience through difficult circumstances.
“Bobbi inspires me because no matter how much she is going through, she pushes past it,” Koehn said. “I’ve been through a lot, and she showed me that I can get through it.”
His teacher, Ms. Norman, has also helped Koehn gain confidence and work toward becoming a better version of themself each day.
“Ms. Norman has pushed me to be the better version of myself every day, even when I didn’t have the confidence,” Koehn said.
In the classroom, Koehn enjoys his First Aid class because of its hands-on learning environment and the people in the class. Coach Rusty Wood is Koehn’s favorite teacher because of the positive energy he brings.
“He is always fun to have around, and you’ll never have a bad moment in class,” Koehn said.
Outside of cheer and school, Koehn enjoys spending time with friends and a bonus family. Fishing at the lake is a favorite summer activity. Koehn is also involved in Spirit Club, helping decorate school halls and paint run-through signs for football games.
As senior year continues, Koehn remains focused on the lessons cheer has taught: work hard, trust those around you, and never stop improving.
