Mirror mirror on the wall…who’s the most spirited of them all…

On the football sidelines, in the gym or anywhere else she goes, Kennedy Weedon stands ready to display her talents in a variety of ways while also eager to lend a helping hand.  A four-year member of the Sallisaw High School varsity cheer team, Weedon is definite in her opinion when asked the question – should cheer be considered a sport?

“Absolutely, 100 percent YES! Just like other sports, there are certain aspects of cheer that are difficult and sometimes dangerous,” Weedon proclaimed. “Tumbling and stunting take practice and athletic ability. Competing as a group, you have to have the connection between every member of the team to trust each other.”

Weedon’s commitment to the Sallisaw cheer squad draws high praise from her coach, Robbi Martin.

“Kennedy is a competent young lady, just one of those students that you look forward to seeing and working with on a daily basis,” replied the Black Diamonds cheer coach. “She stands out as a mature young lady in any group of students.”

Her attention to detail makes it is easy to see why Weedon has been so successful including earning All-Region cheer honors while posting a 4.047 GPA to help Sallisaw win Academic State Championship honors. The classroom achievements have resulted in Weedon gaining membership to the National Honor Society while ranked in the top ten percent of the senior class. Active in her church youth group, Weedon is also a member of the Cherokee Nation Youth Tribal Council representing District 6. 

In her spare time the 2022 Sallisaw senior enjoys social media.

“I like Snapchat because I can keep in touch with my friends. My favorite is Instagram. I love seeing all of my friends posting their pictures and getting to comment and lift them up.”

It’s a response that didn’t surprise her cheer coach.

“That’s Kennedy,” replied Martin. “She’s always looking to serve others and eager to give back to her community.”

Weedon’s competitive spirit abounds as a member of the girls track team where she advanced to the Class 4A state championships competing in the 100-meter hurdles.

“Now that I’ve qualified once, I’m determined to improve my time and stand on the award podium on Championship Saturday.”

What’s the secret for her success? Weedon replied in simple terms.

“Every time I go to an event or practice, my dad tells me as I walk out the door…work hard,” Weedon explained calling it the best advice she’s ever received. “I want my dad to be proud of everything I do. I just remember what he tells me and simply just go out and work hard.”

And because of her commitment and diligence to always give her best efforts, the future for Kennedy Weedon will continue to sparkle in the spirit of the Black Diamonds.