There are people in each of our lives that help shape us into the person that we are today or that we will become. They could be someone that we watch from a distance, like a celebrity or professional athlete, or someone that is part of our everyday lives like a family member. Atly Buckner has a couple of people that have had a big influence on her life.
“I would say that my aunt Tonya and cousin Sydney are some of my biggest role models,” she said. “They always push me to be the best I can be and support me no matter what.”

Atly is a senior at Weatherford High School, where she is a flyer on the cheerleading team. She is also a member of the Student Council.

Bucker has put in many hours of work throughout her career. She knows that success will only come if you are willing to work for it.

“It takes lots and lots of practice to be successful,” she said. “My motivation is wanting to be the best that I can be.”

Throughout her years of cheering, Atly has made a lot of memories with her team. But she has a couple of them that stand out.

“I think the highlight for me so far would have to be getting state runner-up my freshman year,” she said. “Also, anytime we compete against Clinton, the energy for that is unmatched.”

Along with the work she has put in, Bucker knows that her teammates have also played a role in her getting to where she is.
“The teammate that I like to practice with the most is Evi Bozell,” she said. “She wants it just as bad as me. I think one of the underrated people is Sofi Diaz, she just doesn’t get enough credit.”

In the classroom, Buckner has learned from a number of educators that have made an impact on her.

“My favorite teacher would have to be Mrs. Hunt,” she said. “She was my Pre-K teacher and she was like a second mom to me. She always supported me.”