The cheer team sat in the gym waiting for class to begin. They noticed representatives from the Ark Youth group  were presents, but had no idea why. As the visitors began their announcement, the feeling in the gym seemed to shift from curiosity to celebration. The recipient was announced, and the group who usually cheer for athletes had an opportunity to cheer for one of their own as their captain rose to shake hands with the representatives.

On Monday, Katie Leggett was awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the Hustle Award Program.

“We are excited to be able to celebrate all the hard work and effort that goes into different athletic teams,” Ark Youth representative Courtney Small said. “At the end of every season all of the hustle teams (those affiliated with the group) that we currently have on campus will receive a $1,000 scholarship.”

Leggett was caught off guard when her name was announced. Nevertheless, she jumped up to accept the scholarship tearfully.

“I didn’t even really know what was going to happen, whenever I realized that I had won the scholarship I was shocked and grateful,” Leggett said. “I think everyone should do the challenges given to them and really think about the word leader in the cheerleader title we all have.”

There are certain attributes that the Hustle Award Program looks for when deciding who earns a scholarship. Nobody signs up for the scholarship, it finds them.

“We always want to invest in the best traits in students,” Small said. “We appreciate those that are dedicated, show leadership, exhibit GRIT and are never afraid to take charge. Whichever coach has given us the opportunity to celebrate their athletes, we have tried our best to jump in and do so.”

A team is always excited to honor their teammates for the hard work they have put into their craft. Cheerleaders did not stray from this tradition.

“When I heard the name Katie Leggett, I started crying ,” junior Kelsey Weddington said. “I felt so happy for her at that moment. She definitely deserved it. She is always doing what we’re supposed to be doing, she’s positive, and she’s a great captain.”