MacKenzie Gaughan '25 Recruiting Profile

Cheerleading has been my passion ever since I joined my first competitive team at the age of ten. Initially I joined as a fun after school activity but it quickly changed into a lifelong commitment that has shaped who I am today. The community, teamwork, and confidence I found in cheer inspired me to push myself both as an athlete and as a leader. Over my eight years, I’ve learned that success doesn't just come from one individual's performance, but it comes from working as a team to achieve a common goal. As captain of my high-school team, I have learned to lead by example by motivating my teammates during difficult times and trying to build trust within our team. This leadership experience is pushing me to come out of my comfort zones and teaching me the importance of being dedicated. Cheer has also had a big role in my personal growth throughout my life. Through the hard work, pushing through injuries, and overcoming setbacks, I have become more disciplined and resilient, in and out of cheer. I am very passionate to continue my cheer career at the collegiate level because I want to be a part of a team that values hard work and school spirit. I want to become more a part of my new community, and I want to keep growing as a person. College cheer has been a dream of mine since I can remember, so I am determined to make it happen!