By Blake Chadwick
Andover Central senior Julia Smith is a senior cheerleader for the Jaguars who is way more than just an athlete.
“Julia is a mature, thoughtful person,” head coach Desirae Moreno said. “She can see things from different angles, a skill that many high schoolers do not yet possess. She has been a leader in the school through STUCO as well as a senior captain on our cheer team.”
Smith has been a cheerleader since she was in seventh grade and has been excelling in everything and leading so that those around her excel as well. She has been an NCA All-American nominee three years and made the All-American team this year. Smith was also named as a Top-Gun Stunt finalist two years and Top-Gun Stunt champion. On top of being a section leader for the band, a National Honor Society member and a volunteer with the circle of friends and her church.
Smith truly embodies being a leader whenever she can.
“I feel what makes a leader is helping bring out the best in one another and not fearing mistakes,” Smith said. “I will strive to help lead and encourage returning and newer athletes to excel and grow their skills.”
Smith does have plans of being a college cheerleader that date all the way back to her younger days.
“Growing up, my grandparents took me to the Wichita State basketball games,” Smith said. “I always looked forward to watching the cheerleaders. From seeing them stunt during quarters and watching performances during halftime, I fell in love and dreamed of being a WSU cheerleader.”
