D6 Athlete of the Week: Jenessa Pettyjohn, Greeley Central High School

"Jenessa is a true embodiment of dedication, passion, and leadership. Her unwavering commitment to cheerleading is reflected in her perfect attendance at practices over the past two years, showing her incredible work ethic and determination. As a role model, she isn't just a cheerleader; she is a source of inspiration and support for her teammates, always there with the pep talk that lifts their spirits or the comforting shoulder when needed. Her contributions extend beyond the gym, making her a beloved figure at community events, where she consistently goes above and beyond. Jenessa's dedication to her sport and team makes her an exceptional role model both on and off the field." - Lexi Hernandez, Cheer Coach

Student Name

Jenessa Pettyjohn

School

Greeley Central High School

Grade Level

Sophomore

Sports

Cheerleading, Track and Field

Positions

Multiple Cheer Positions

"My achievement was just joining the sport in general. It helped me grow physically and mentally, and made me more considerate to how I treated people and how it would affect them."   

What are your goals for this season?

"My goals for this season is just to be a leader and to be their for everyone who needs me, but also advancing in my stunting and tumbling."   

Who are your role models in your sport or life, and how have they influenced you?

"My role models are: Aubrey Erdmann because she encourages me to keep working on my tumbling so I can advance to harder stuff; Paige Oziah because she's always checking up on me mentally during cheer season and track; my coach Alexis Hernandez who has always been there for me through my ups and downs. My coach is always pushing me to do my best and believing in me when no one else did. I'm very thankful for all of them."

How do you manage the balance between academics and athletics? What strategies have been most effective for you? 

"I balance academics and athletics by doing my work as soon as I get them. I don't push it off because it would just pile up. Then, it would make you just not want to do it."  

How do you handle pressure and maintain mental resilience during high-stakes competition?

"I handle pressure by just breathing because our performances are only a couple of minutes. I just keep my cool and try not to overthink things. I let my muscle memory kick in." 

What are your career or college plans after you graduate high school? 

"My plans are to go to a decent college and continue in the medical field, and maybe do a sport, so I can have something to encourage me to keep going." 

What advice do you have for younger athletes who want to join your sport?

"I say join. It's going to be scary at tryouts, but it's so fun when you do. Also, join because you're interested. Don't join just to join because cheer is a combined effort sport. If you join and don't try, you're not only hurting yourself but also your teammates." 

Do you have any funny pre-game rituals or superstitions that you stick to?

"Our pre-game ritual is we always do our "yes chant" before our performances."  

If you were to participate in a talent show unrelated to your sport, what would your act be?

"Probably singing because I do sing randomly sometimes."