The pouring rain didn’t stop Ricki Huckbay and her teammates from giving their all. “A memorable moment from last season was cheering at the last home game. It was pouring down rain and we were all soaked,” Ricki said. “I am grateful for my teammates who stuck it out in the rain so that the seniors could have their final moment cheering at a football game.” That kind of spirit defines Ricki’s journey as a cheerleader at Gore High School.
Ricki is a senior who’s been cheering since the third grade. “I have always enjoyed tumbling and having a smile on my face,” she said. “Cheer has always been something that brings me immense joy.”
As a captain this year, Ricki takes her leadership seriously. “With that title comes a lot of responsibility,” she said. “I strive to be a positive role model both on and off the mat. I make it a priority to uplift others and push my teammates to do their best at all times.”
Her love for the sport was inspired by family. “My sister inspired me to become a cheerleader as she was also a Gore High School cheerleader,” she said. “My biggest influence is my mom. She’s a hardworking woman who’s always been supportive of her kids. She inspires me daily to be a better person and to keep God at the center of everything I do.”
Ricki’s passion for cheerleading goes beyond routines and stunts. “I am most proud of changing the atmosphere in cheerleading,” she said. “I wanted people to see cheer as more than just chants and pom-poms. It’s about leadership, strength, and spirit.”
Even when faced with adversity, like tearing her ACL in the summer of 2022, Ricki found strength in her support system. “It was tough physically, but it really affected me mentally,” she said. “I leaned on my family, coaches, and friends who helped me think positive and focus on my recovery.”
After graduation, Ricki plans to attend a university and pursue a doctorate in physical therapy. “Even though I won’t be playing sports competitively, I plan to stay active and involved in the fitness world.”
