Clinton High School senior Azlynn Salinas has been a cheerleader since middle school. Her mother encouraged her to try out for cheer since Salinas showed interest in dance, gymnastics, and ballet from a young age.
Looking back on her high school career, it’s difficult for Salinas to single out a favorite memory. She has appreciated all the little moments as well as the big ones.
“I really loved spending time with my teammates and hyping each other up,” she said. “Our competition team was super close because of all the countless extra hours we put in together. I could never pick just one favorite memory, but my top moments were definitely before and after each performance.”
Salinas strives to be her best and be a leader, showing the love she has for her teammates.
“My team is my biggest motivation. Being their captain really pushes me to try and be my best for them,” she said. “My teammates mean everything to me. No matter if we win or lose a game, a wrestling match, or anything else, they’re always there at the end of the day. I just hope they know how much I care about them and how much I believe in their potential to be the amazing athletes I know they are.”
Salinas has also ran track since middle school, saying that, like cheer, the team is very closely connected. No matter the sport, there is one thing that all Clinton athletes seem to agree on.
“I think if you ask any Red Tornado [about their favorite opponent], the answer will always be the Weatherford Eagles,” said Salinas. “The Custer County Conflict is such a big deal—it gets everyone hyped, even the people who don’t usually get excited for games. The energy leading up to it is truly unmatched.”
One person in particular has been a great influence for Salinas.
“My cheer role model is my older cousin, Illiana Carlon, who graduated last year,” she said. “Watching her work hard and grow into an amazing athlete really inspired me and will continue to. She always showed up ready to cheer, and her energy lit up the floor.”
After graduation, Salinas plans to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a pediatric nurse.
