Van Buren County High School cheerleader Anya Brewer is taking the leadership skills she developed on the sidelines into a student advisory role, advocating for improvements to school life and greater student involvement.
Brewer said her position allows her to represent fellow students in discussions about school climate, campus improvements and opportunities for students to become more involved. She said the experience has expanded her understanding of leadership beyond athletics.
“My leadership at the school has helped me build on and develop the skill that I’ve learned as a cheerleader and helps me support my team more fully,” Brewer said. “It has also helped me view my role as a leader as not just leading people, but understanding them and really trying to help them.”
Brewer said serving on the advisory board has reinforced the importance of recognizing individual needs. Whether helping a teammate learn a cheer or offering encouragement to a fellow student, she believes effective leadership requires adapting to different situations.
“Once you’ve been serving for a while, you learn to serve in different capacities depending on what those you serve need,” Brewer said. “For instance, one person may need moral support and another person may need support with learning a cheer. Those sorts of things really can go beyond just being at cheer practice or being at games.”
Brewer said communication plays an important role in both her responsibilities, helping students work together, organize activities and build stronger relationships.
“Communication allows for more impactful performances and event planning,” Brewer said. “It also allows bonding which is extremely important not only in sports but just in everyday life, particularly at school.”
Balancing cheerleading, academics and student leadership requires organization. Brewer said she keeps track of responsibilities through a phone calendar and enjoys the opportunities that come with staying involved.
Brewer said she hopes her example encourages younger athletes to become involved in their school and look for ways to support others.
“I hope to make a lasting impact by hopefully being a good role model for younger athletes,” Brewer said. “I hope that they aspire to be an athlete that is similar to one that I am.”