Before the lights come on and the crowd fills the stands, Maggie Bell has already put in hours of preparation.
The Plainview High School sophomore balances a demanding schedule as a cheerleader, powerlifter, dancer, football trainer and student, but she approaches each responsibility with the same commitment to improvement. Whether she is serving as a main base for the cheer squad, working on dance technique or preparing for class, Bell understands that success is built through consistency.
“To be successful in my sports, it has taken consistency and hard work,” Bell said. “I have been a dancer for about 13 years and I have been cheering for six. I have multiple practices per week, and I continuously work on certain skills so that I can keep improving my technique.”
Bell’s dedication extends beyond competition. She is in her second year of student teaching the 3-year-old class at her dance studio, giving her an opportunity to share her experience with young dancers while developing leadership skills of her own.
Her motivation comes from wanting to fulfill the dreams she had as a younger athlete and make her family proud. Bell also draws inspiration from country music icon Dolly Parton, whose story and character have made a lasting impression on her.
“My biggest role model is Dolly Parton because she came from nothing, and even as she rose to fame, she was never anything other than a sweetheart,” Bell said.
On campus, Bell has established herself as a well-rounded student. She finished her freshman year in the top 10 percent of her class and serves as a football trainer for both the junior high and high school programs. Keeping up with those commitments requires a careful approach to time management.
“I keep myself on a very strict schedule and have to plan my week out in advance,” Bell said.
One teacher who helped shape Bell’s academic experience was her seventh-grade math teacher, Mrs. Nancie Rosson. Bell said Rosson changed her outlook on a subject she once disliked and made her feel valued in the classroom.
“Mrs. Rosson helped me develop a love for the subject after I had disliked it my entire life, and she treated me as if I was her own,” Bell said. “She is the kind of teacher you only get once in a lifetime.”
For Bell, cheerleading’s best moments are created by the people around her. This year, she said the arrival of new coaches has energized the program and pushed the entire team to raise its standard.
Games against Plainview’s nearby rival bring another level of excitement, with both communities packing the stands. Still, Bell knows her role represents something larger. She strives to carry herself with pride because younger students are watching and may one day follow her example.
