By Elizabeth Contreras

At Broken Arrow High School, senior Mia Nanita demonstrates leadership through example. As game day cheer captain, Nanita guides her team through routines and preparations, inspiring her teammates with her energy, positivity, and dedication. Nanita efficiently balances organization, encouragement and motivation, making her a respected and dependable leader who truly brings out the best in those around her.

“I have received multiple Tiger Stripe awards, which is chosen by either the team or coaches for showing positive attributes,” Nanita shared. “My friend introduced me to Broken Arrow cheer, and I fell in love with it!”

Nanita’s favorite part of cheer is competing throughout the year and representing the Tigers in a positive way. She said her biggest role model on the team is captain Jaxon Roop, who she admires for his leadership skills.

“He is always leading the team and making sure we stay on track,” she adds. “I really look up to that.”

For her, the most challenging aspect of cheer has been balancing the demands of a busy student-athlete. Nanita participates in multiple programs, including the Committee on Life at Broken Arrow Senior High (COLABASH), National Honor Society, and advanced leadership. In preparation for her future, Nanita participated in an ACT Test Preparation class at Huntington Learning Center, where she found the personalized environment especially helpful in targeting the specific sections she needed to improve.

While her accomplishments in academics are notable, she cherishes her team’s shared successes most of all. The most memorable moment for her was winning Gameday State last year, a time she describes as both challenging and exhilarating.

“We worked so hard, and it was such a fun routine to perform,” she shared.

Whether it’s executing a favorite stunt, nailing a tumbling sequence or energizing the crowd, the collaborative spirit of cheerleading is what Nanita loves most. She also prides herself in motivating her teammates, always hyping them up before routines and supporting them in every practice.

After high school, Nanita plans to attend college and study international business and language, with cheer possibly continuing to play a role in her future. Through her dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm, Nanita has left a lasting impression on Broken Arrow High School and on all those who have the privilege of knowing her.