Maddie Suggs is a senior at Walnut Grove High school and was on Spirit of Texas Royalty for the 25-26 season. Royalty won first this past season at the NCA All Star Nationals competition and placed 2nd at the cheerleading worlds.
1. What was it like competing at Worlds and how does it compare to other competitions?
Suggs: Competing at worlds is so much fun. Getting to be in Orlando with all of my best friends and compete in such a fun environment makes for the best weekend.
2. What’s something people wouldn’t expect about competing at Worlds?
Suggs: It’s so much more chill than people think. I feel like everyone thinks it’s so much more scary than it is. It feels like a party on the floor rather than something to be scared of.
3. What is your favorite memory from worlds?
Suggs: My favorite memory from worlds is when we sang our superstition/tradition song before we compete. We all get in a circle and sing “I Believe” by R Kelly and it gets really emotional.
4. What part of the whole experience stands out the most to you?
Suggs: One thing that stands out to me is how much love radiated off of my team throughout the entire weekend. There’s so much love between me and my teammates and it was visible this weekend.
5. What was it like balancing cheer and senior year?
Suggs: Balancing cheer and senior year was definitely a challenge but it was so worth it in the end.
6. What kept you motivated when things got tough?
Suggs: Anytime it got hard I always told myself that I would miss it when it was over. That kept me super present and reminded me not to take any of the small moments for granted.
7. Was there a specific moment where you felt like all the preparation was worth it?
Suggs: Absolutely. Standing backstage with my team on both days, talking to our coaches, doing all of our handshakes, and telling everyone how much we loved each other before going on stage was when I realized how ready we were and how worth it all of the hard work was.
8. If you could do it all again is there anything you would change?
Suggs: I wouldn’t change a thing. Getting to be a part of Spirit of Texas Royalty this season was the biggest blessing and the most amazing opportunity I’ve ever been given.
9. What would you tell someone trying to juggle both senior year and a worlds team?
Suggs: Take it all in. While it can be stressful, time is nothing but a thief and it goes by quicker than you’ll realize. Be present, love your people, and take advantage of the time you still have in this stage of life.
10. Looking back now, how do you feel about the whole experience and how has it impacted you?
Suggs: There is truly nothing like it. It is a one of a kind experience that nothing can compare to. If I could do it again 100 times over I would.
