Newcastle senior cheerleader Scotty Banfield was “ecstatic” when she found out she was selected for the 2022 West All-State cheer team.

“There were so many amazing girls at tryout that I just felt honored and accomplished to make it,” Banfield says. “It’s been a pretty big goal for me since I started school cheer freshman year, so I was very excited.”

Banfield grew up participating in gymnastics. After six years, she wanted to apply her tumbling skills.

“I started doing privates at a cheer gym and the coach finally convinced me to cheer, and I’ve loved it ever since,” Banfield says.

“Scotty is one of the hardest-working cheerleaders that I have worked with. She dedicates herself not only to her teammates but demonstrates the same level of commitment in the classroom as well,” says NHS coach Stacy Wright, who has coached Banfield all four years. “She leads by example and is willing to jump in and help at any time. She responds well to feedback from her coaches and wants to take her talent to the next level through her hard work and a tremendous desire to succeed.”

Banfield also competes for Newcastle’s track & field team and participates in competitions cheer. After high school, Banfield plans to attend college to obtain certification for physical therapy.

“I haven’t quite decided where I’m going yet, but wherever I go, I want to cheer at the collegiate level,” Banfield says.

“(Banfield’s) leadership and work ethic are what every coach hopes for from one of their top athletes,” Wright says. “She will definitely be missed next year, and I can’t wait to watch her at the next level.”