Photo courtesy of Doug Garrett
Madie Raley
Madie is a senior at Plant City High School, where she is on the Raiders varsity cheer team.
How epic was it winning Nationals and Worlds this weekend?
Winning nationals and worlds was by far the most magical and epic experience of my four years competing in this program.
After winning Nationals, were there still nerves for Worlds?
After winning nationals, my body and mind were both entirely calm. I had no nerves whatsoever because I knew that regardless of a placement at Worlds, our team was getting one last opportunity on a competition mat to show people why we deserved our win, and we wouldn’t let each other down.
After awards were announced, you and the team were huddled/circled around each other for the last time as a squad. What were you feeling at that moment?
I was feeling so many emotions. I was so happy that we won, and our class was going out with such a bang. But I was also so sad; I see myself in some of those younger girls and cannot even fathom leaving them behind. That team was a family; I don’t know how to feel about the season being over. And lastly, I was just so proud. Our team has overcome so many ups and downs, but we pulled through in the end, and I couldn’t be more proud of my best friends.
Would you describe this as the perfect ending to your high school cheer career?
Absolutely. Our class made history as freshman, winning states for the first time, and we ended the way we started, but this time even a larger moment in history- worlds and nationals. God had a plan for us the last few years, and I know it all happened for a reason.
Was this your last time cheering, or do you plan on cheering again in the future?
This was the last time for me. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to end my cheer career. There is no topping this year and all of our accomplishments, so I am content with retiring from cheer now.
What are you going to miss the most about cheering for Plant City?
The people. Each year, 15-20 girls become your best friends, and the coaches are an adult you can go to if you’re scared to talk to your parents. It’s overall just a great environment, and I’m going to miss seeing my best friends every day.
What’s your favorite thing about cheer?
My favorite thing about cheer is the feeling of hitting with all of your favorite people. I wish I could explain the feelings of pure joy after each sequence hits, it is so surreal.
If you’re not cheering, what are you doing in your free time?
Hopefully, focusing on school and maybe trying to get a small job on the side before I’m off to college.
What advice would you give to those who want to try out for PCHS cheer next year?
Soak it all in. Every last second. And if it gets hard, stick it out because I did, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
10. What are your favorite songs to get you hyped for a comp or game day?
Run this town by JAY-Z
