by Scott Metz
Ardmore High School senior Shaylin Sykes is a multisport athlete, being a cheerleader, and playing tennis for the Ardmore High School Tigers. Shaylin is the cheer captain for the Ardmore Tigers, and in tennis, she does #1 doubles with her teammate Danica. Many would consider Shaylin a sports veteran, cheering for 7 years, and playing tennis for 3 years.
Shaylin is proud to represent both her school and community as a student athlete. Shaylin proclaimed, “Being a student athlete means you have a support system behind you. Everyone in the Ardmore community is so supportive of all the teams that play. It also means you have so much influence; kids constantly look up to you, and admire you, and I absolutely love that!”
In terms of what it has taken Shaylin to become successful in sports, Shaylin stated, “To be successful in both of my sports, it requires having a good mindset. You have to put all of your emotions to the side, and focus on your goal.”
When it comes to her role models or biggest influences, Shaylin looks toward her coaches, family, and faith. Shaylin stated, “Some of my biggest influences are my coaches, family, and God. They all inspire me to be a better person every single day, and help me try to become the fullest of all my potential.”
As a student athlete, there is usually a teacher or faculty member that has stood out during their academic career. Shaylin stated, “One of the teachers who had the biggest impact on me is Ms. Mary Johnson. She has always motivated everyone to strive for excellence and always represents everything that makes up you.”
In addition to playing sports at Ardmore High School, Shaylin is involved with extracurricular activities. Shaylin is a part of the Ardmore High School Yearbook staff, and she attends church at H2O.
After graduating from Ardmore High School, Shaylin plans on pursuing higher education. Shaylin stated, “After high school, I plan to attend The University of Central Oklahoma, to major in business. I also plan to try out for their cheer team.”
