SPUNK, SPIRT AND CLASS

With non-stop energy and determination, the Gore Pirates varsity cheer squad earned their ticket to compete in the OSSAA Cheerleading Championships as part of the nine-team field competing in the Small CoEd classification. The 18-member squad takes great pride in displaying the spirit of the Pirates.

“These kids want to achieve their best,” said cheer coach Telitha McAlister. “There’s lots of natural talent among this year’s squad. Every one of them put in the time to perfect our routine.”

McAlister credits the impact of two seniors, Shelby Summerlin and Kayleigh Johnson, for setting the standard.

“Together both girls have been our leaders,” said the third year Gore cheer coach. “They’re knowledgeable about cheer and stunting and bring the right attitudes to practice every day.”

Altogether, the cheer team maintains a 3.5 GPA.

Team members include the two seniors, Shelby Summerlin and Kayleigh Johnson along with seven juniors including Honey McAlister, Mattyson Barnes, Ella Magby, Veronica Thomas, Kaylee Comer, Kevin Hubler and Aspyn Cearley. Sophomore members are Ella Murphy, Paige Curran, Natalie Casteel, Mara Peters, Oaklei Thornton and Andi Summerlin as well as two freshmen, Ricki Huckaby and Riley Peevy.  Gore cheer is coached by Telitha McAlister and Jill Thornton.

HOMECOMING ROYALTY

Who will be the 2021 Homecoming Queen? The answer will be announced October 22nd as the Pirates entertain Hulbert. Based upon the outcome of a student vote, one of three seniors, Ralea Brooksher, Autumn Mcever or Kenzi Terrell will be crowned as the 2021 Queen.  Other members of the royal court include junior attendant Honey McAlister, sophomore Morgan Brake and freshman Taydem Perryman. Homecoming will also celebrate Senior night 2021.

RUNNING FOR GOLD

The Pirates cross country team will be running for the prize as the OSSAA regional and state championship approach in October paced by the talents of senior distance champion Ty Bliss, who has won gold medals in four of five events this fall after winning the 3200 meter crown last spring during the track season. Another senior Bobby Stewart will compete in the Class 2A boys races while sophomore Hallie Kinion will run in the girls competition. After sustaining an early season injury, senior Kenzi Terrell has encouraged her teammates as the team’s manager.

“These kids have endured the very warm temperatures this season while running endless miles every week to condition themselves for their events,” said Gore coach Crystal Bliss. “I’m confident they’ll be ready to challenge their competition.”

The OSSAA regionals are scheduled for October 23rd and the state meet will be held on the trails at Edmond Santa Fe on October 30th.