Get to know AC’s Jan/Feb 2011 Cheerleader of the Month.
Besides being a kick-butt cheerleader at North Laurel HS in London, KY, 15-year-old Taylor Hubbard is also an amazing student, a former Miss Kentucky Teen USA winner and an incredible sister and daughter. Even so, this past year was a tough one for her (she tore her ACL mid-season and then lost her mom to lung and brain cancer shortly thereafter) and Taylor’s shown a strength and courage that most people her age can’t comprehend. Though, despite these difficult times, Taylor’s focus has remained steadfast and she’s not only surviving—she’s persevering!
Take a look at what the blond beauty had to say about cheer, life and happiness.
On the hardest thing about being a cheerleader
“I think the hardest part of cheer is staying focused on your goals so you don’t let yourself burn out. Our practice schedule is grueling and it always has been, but you have to keep your eye on the prize!”
On making it through the tough times
“My mom passed away in August, after a 22-month battle with lung cancer. This was extremely hard for me. I’ve always heard that everything happens for a reason, and this still holds true for me. Although I miss her terribly, I’ve grown from the experience of having to care for someone else and also from her strength. Now, when something challenges me, I think of her and her strength.”
On how she spends her time
“I take school work very seriously and have worked hard to get where I am. I’m also involved with other extra curricular activities such as tennis and First Priority (a student outreach program).”
On her hometown of London, KY
“Everyone in Kentucky loves cheerleading! Also, our high school and middle school cheer squads have a long history of strong, competitive cheerleading programs and we have great support from our community.”
On being Miss Kentucky Teen USA
“I love pageants. They’ve really helped me grow as a person and I’ve been exposed to things I wouldn’t ordinarily have been, as well as gained confidence in myself. Some of the causes I focused on during the pageant were the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, D.A.R.E, Girl Talk, Best Buddies and Project Sunshine.”
On how to deal with adversity
“Adversity is something that everybody goes through at one point. Try to turn the situation around. Be an inspiration to someone else who’s going through something at the same time. It helps ease your mind and theirs!”
On taking one for the team
“Last year before Halloween, we were practicing Basket Tosses and my [top girl] elbowed me in the mouth—and knocked out my two my front teeth! I talked with a lisp for the rest of the night, until I got it fixed. Not so funny then, but it is now.”
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5 responses so far ↓
Rebecca Feb 2, 2011 at 2:53 pm
I loved her feature in the magazine; what a strong and inspiring young woman!
AJ Feb 7, 2011 at 7:31 pm
Wow, girl, you are so strong! I’m amazed that you have such strength! Keep being amazing!
Taylor lynn Feb 26, 2011 at 2:40 pm
I have known Miss. Taylor Hubbard since she was little, We was in girl scouts together. I can personally say from being a old time friend and competing with her in home town pageants that she is a wonderful girl who is strong and inspiring and so very kind to her piers and we love her very much.
Jill Mar 7, 2011 at 4:55 pm
How inspirational! The part about the Basket Toss was hilarious, but it definitely struck home with me. As a back base, I get bruised, hit, knocked, and scratched by my top girl every practice… although fortunately I haven’t lost any teeth – yet! Taylor Hubbard is a fantastic role model!
Deenah Nov 9, 2011 at 1:18 am
Taylor is the kind of a girl you would want to be best friends with. I am glad to hear how genuine and hardworking a girl my age can be and how committed she is to this sport.
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