For Elayna Bartell, being part of the Elk City High School cheer team is about more than routines and ribbons — it’s about growth, grit, and genuine team spirit. “My personal goal this year is to keep growing and improve my stunting and tumbling skills,” Bartell said. That dedication to constant improvement has helped her become a reliable member of the squad and an encouraging teammate.
As the season progresses, Bartell says the team atmosphere has been nothing short of special. “The team’s morale this year has been amazing,” she said. That bond shows through in every performance, where their energy and unity light up the sidelines and competition floor.
The progress hasn’t just come in attitude — it’s visible in their performance, too. “The biggest improvement I’ve seen is in our communication and stunting,” Bartell explained.
That teamwork will be key as Elk City sets its sights on a major milestone. “Our goal this year is to go to state,” Bartell said. “We’re working on this by performing our very best and giving everything we have.” It’s a challenge the team embraces with determination and confidence.
When asked what makes this group so resilient, Bartell didn’t hesitate. “Our team’s biggest strength right now is that we’re able to keep going even when things get a little tough,” she said. “We push through together.”
On the mat, Bartell mainly serves as a backspot, though she’s versatile enough to fill any role. “I mainly stay as a backspot, but I know every position,” she shared. Her attention to detail extends to her approach in practice. “The things I look for the most in challenging cheers are placement and footwork.”
Preparation is key, both mentally and physically. “I drink a lot of water before performances,” she said. “And I try to keep a happy and positive mindset.”
That attitude has carried Bartell through memorable moments, including a standout performance from her freshman year. “Winning second place at my freshman year competition,” she recalled, “was such a proud moment for all of us.”
A 5’2” sophomore, Bartell balances her time as a cheerleader, FCCLA officer, NHS member, and soccer team manager, with future plans to become a radiologic technician. When asked how she hopes to be remembered, her answer was simple but sincere: “I would want to be remembered as kind and hardworking.”
