Vinita High School sophomore Aaliyah Ramsey embraces the challenge of competing in multiple sports while continuing to grow as an athlete and teammate. A varsity cheerleader, Ramsey also plays basketball and competes in track and cross country for the Hornets.
“I play basketball, cheer, and run track and cross country. I play a post in basketball and run sprints in track,” Ramsey said.
Her favorite athletic memory came during track season as a freshman. After difficult early meets marked by cold, rainy weather, Ramsey delivered a breakthrough performance in the 400 meters.
“The accomplishment I’m most proud of is when I got my first 400-meter PR at our third track of the season after having previous meets with rainy and cold weather my freshman year,” Ramsey said. “Seeing the excited expressions of everyone around me and feeling this deep sense of triumph and shock has never left me.”
That moment also reflects the mindset Ramsey has developed through athletics. Competing has taught her that progress does not always happen immediately, and that patience is essential when facing adversity.
“My sport has taught me that I need to be more patient and understanding with myself and those around me,” Ramsey said. “I tend to struggle with getting easily upset or irritated by people, myself included, when a new task isn’t immediately perfected. I’ve learned that improvement takes time and in order to achieve the progress I want to see, I need to give more grace, forgive mistakes, and allow myself to take a step back and try again.”
Away from competition, Ramsey appreciates the support of her favorite teacher, Mrs. Kennedy.
“She always has a free ear and open mind if someone needs to talk to her and I find that to be something that kids need most,” Ramsey said. “She is always there with a smile, and I personally feel the most comfortable talking to her about things that are completely unrelated to school.”
Ramsey carries that same thoughtful approach into every sport, continuing to learn, improve and encourage those around her.
