Ready, Okay
Gianna Ozuniga-Marques (8)
The stage lights blur my vision, just enough to not notice the hundreds of people in the crowd. My hands pierce into the side of my hips as I pose with a huge smile on my face. My muscles tighten and I sweat nervously waiting for the music to start.
Aubrey Rodriguez was 6 years old when a new passion for tumbling sparked. She did gymnastics until the age of 8, but then stopped because of family problems. Eventually she got older and her passion for gymnastics never went away. At the age of 12, exactly one year ago, she got the opportunity to start competitive cheerleading. This was perfect because she was able to do something she’d always loved but this time she would be showcased with a full team!
Why does she love cheer so much? “Because I’ve always had a passion for it since I was little and I love performing.” Aubrey is part of a tumbling and base for the Texas Wolverine Vixens . She goes on to perform once a month all across Texas. Aubrey and her cheer team have gone to Summit, Redline Cheer, Cheer Power, and even NCA!
In addition, she has gotten the opportunity to meet the most world renowned teams such as Midnight, TGLC, Stingray Orange, Lady Lux, SSX, and the World Cup Shooting Stars.
The cheer season ends in May, but then starts up again in August. Aubrey works tirelessly every Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 7pm-9pm to make sure the routine is on point. One of the biggest deals in the cheer world is making it to NCA (national cheerleading association). “It is one of the biggest competitions that is located in Dallas, Texas. Many different countries from around the world travel here and perform to win medals, banners, and bids to Disney World.” Aubrey’s team was lucky enough to get a bid to Disney World this year. Aubrey and her Vixens will perform at this Magical place May 6-7, 2023.
When Aubrey gets older, she wants to do sideline cheer for Trinity Valley College. She hopes to continue her passion for cheer and tumbling by coaching future cheerleading stars!