Words by Skylar Lara | Images by Ryan McGill
Meet Ryleigh Thompson, a Bevill State cheerleader who possesses tons of energy and embodies the enthusiasm all coaches hope for in their athletes. With several years of cheer experience, Ryleigh has been a significant contributor to the Bears’ cheer squad, helping lead cheers and stunts. As she listens to her hype music before the games, Ryleigh gets ready to “bring the energy”.
Ryleigh has always been a natural at cheerleading. She started cheering at the age of five and began all-star cheer and gymnastics at eight years old. She then cheered for Meek High School until graduating in 2021 and continuing to participate in the sport at Bevill. In high school, Ryleigh was captain of the cheer team where she grew as both a cheerleader and a leader. Looking back on her time in high school, she says, “It was always a fun time on and off the field.”
When asked what she loves the most about cheering, Ryleigh replied, “Cheerleading has given me the confidence that I need and taught me how to become a leader. Cheering at Bevill has brought me some really close friends and helped me get to know people in the community.”
For Ryleigh, cheering in college was always one of her goals and Bevill seemed like the perfect fit. She had planned to continue her cheer career elsewhere after Bevill but after tearing her LCL, her cheer career might be over after Bevill. She credits her growth as a cheerleader to her cheer sponsor at Bevill, Danielle Cohoon. Describing their relationship Ryleigh says, “Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She’s the most supportive coach I’ve ever had and I hope to be friends with her for a lifetime.”
Looking forward to life after Bevill, Ryleigh has plans to pursue a business degree and work in real estate. When she’s not busy leading cheers or participating in Desperation Church’s youth group, Ryleigh loves exercising and spending time with her family. When asked to describe herself in one word, Ryleigh replied, “Confident. I put 100% into everything I do. I don’t let people’s opinions impact my actions. I’m hard working and I’m driven.”
This unwavering dedication to bringing energy has created a buzz in the community for the Bevill Bears, as Ryleigh and the rest of the cheer squad are determined to bring energy to the Bevill State Bears basketball team. WL
