Whether she’s on stage, the sidelines, cheering on the golf course or in the classroom, there’s no denying the Mabrey Been is the “Talk of the Tailgate.” 

A senior at Henryetta High School, the ever smiling Been continuously displays the spirit of the Golden Knights.

“School spirit can create unity, excitement, pride, and a sense of belonging. I like to try and boost school spirit at Henryetta by helping organize pep rallies, promote extra-curricular events on social media plus create and participate in student section themes,” explained Been. “And this year in our new communications class, I have been enjoying filming and editing hype videos to promote our teams and organizations.”

 A three-year varsity cheerleader, Been is also a member of the Henryetta golf team that qualified for the state tournament in 2021 and 2022 along with being a star of the stage all the while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

“I have been honored to play Liesl in The Sound of Music, Laurey in Oklahoma!, Belle in Beauty and the Beast, and will be playing Morticia Addams in The Addams Family this fall,” smiled Been. “Theatre! It is like nothing else. The program allows me to be creative, vulnerable, and has really grown me as a person”.

The versatility of “Mabs” draws praise from her cheer coach at Henryetta. 

“Mabrey is a jack of all trades. She’s very beneficial to our team because she is responsible and a good leader to our underclassmen, a teammate that the others can look up to,” replied Kristin Hargis. “Mabrey shows great sportsmanship, pride and commitment athletically and academically. You could say she’s a game changer because she is a student athlete who you can count on and you will not be let down!”

The coach’s definition is an everyday goal for Been.

“A game changer takes their knowledge, passion and willingness working to make a positive difference in any environment. They do what others won’t. My approach is to take the responsibility to serve and guide others in a helpful and productive way.”

Without question, Mabrey Been is a fun-loving person who dedicates her every effort to make the most out of high school for herself and her peers by following her mother’s advice.

“Mom has always told me “Don’t let anyone steal your joy, or dim your light,” Been said with compassion. “We choose how we live our life everyday!”

The actions and winning results of Mabrey Been prove why she is the “Talk of the Tailgate.”