From the moment she first stepped onto a mat at age 5, Elgin High School sophomore Austyn Garrison has been chasing big skills and even bigger moments in cheerleading. What started in competitive Allstar cheer and the Elgin youth recreational league has grown into a resume that includes varsity cheer, state and national honors, and upcoming performances on two of the country’s biggest stages.
Garrison spent years learning advanced tumbling and stunting, excelling as both a base and a backspot. In 2023, she added school cheer and competitive dance, performing with the Owlettes pom squad and helping the varsity team capture a 5A state game-day championship during the 2024-25 season. By 2025, she knew she wanted to return fully to cheer, earning a spot on the varsity squad, where she now serves as a base – her favorite role.
Her dedication has brought national recognition. Garrison is a two-time All-American with the Universal Cheerleaders Association and has performed in the Walt Disney World Thanksgiving Day Parade. This November, she will cheer with Spirit of America Cheer in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
Away from the mat, Garrison balances her schedule with strong academics and leadership. She is a member of National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes and has earned OSDTDA Academic All-State honors multiple times. She lists art as her favorite class and credits teacher Mrs. Evon for making learning fun and sharing stories from her travels.
Garrison says her great-grandmother inspires her to “see the joy in being yourself and not worrying about what people think.” She also looks up to best friend and teammate McKenzie Mullendore, who reminds her to focus on the fun of the sport, win or lose.
“All hard work is worth it,” Garrison said. “At first it might seem like things aren’t going well…but just keep working at it and eventually it will all come together.”
