“Competitive” might be Hilldale High School junior Addison Whitford’s middle name as you listen tell how she came to be part of the Hornet cheer squad.

“My mom cheered in high school, so she put me in gymnastics when I was about three and I really got into tumbling and started doing cheer when I was in kindergarten. I did competitive gymnastics until I was in seventh grade, but I still take tumbling classes and that led me into competitive cheer,” said Addison. “As I got into high school, I found that I missed the competitive side of things so a friend of mine got me into competitive cheer with Luxe Athletics in Tulsa last year and that’s really helped with my school cheer as well because I have a little more knowledge of the skills involved than a lot of the girls.”

Addison was part of the Hilldale cheer squad that qualified for state this year in the spirit competition and placed eighth.

“The thing I like about cheer is being part of a team and making new friends. I really enjoy Friday nights and any chance I get to do some tumbling,” said Whitford who also enjoys doing stunts in which she is a backspot.

Last summer the Hilldale squad went to UCA summer camp and Addison made All American and her competitive team got to perform at The Arena for the ESPN world competition last April.

“Addison is such a hard worker who’s very dedicated to her sport,” said her coach Madison McMurtrey. “She’s a great role model for our younger girls and is an excellent student in the classroom and I’m just happy to have her as part of our team.’

Addison, who is also in the National Honor Society, doesn’t ‘have to look far for motivation.

“My mom really motivates me by telling me how proud of me she is and is always encouraging me.”