Name: Kelly DeNaples
Age: 18
School/Grade: West Milford High School, 12
Activity: Varsity Cheerleading Captain
This week we Take Five with Kelly DeNaples, captain of the West Milford Highlander varsity cheerleading squad. Kelly has been cheering most of her life and wants everyone to know just how demanding cheerleading is. Anyone who has seen these talented girls perform knows what good athletes they are. Be sure to go to our Web site, westmilfordmessenger.com, to read our bonus five with Kelly.
1. How did you get involved with cheerleading?
I started cheering in the second grade on Flag Gold. I watched my older sister cheer and was dying to do it myself, so as soon as I was old enough I signed up. I started competing in fourth grade.
2. What would most people be surprised to know about cheerleading?
I think most people would be surprised to know how physically demanding cheerleading is. We condition and work out like any other sport, and I’m usually sore after practice. Cheerleading has a bad reputation; a lot of people think we just jump around with pom poms, but things like tumbling and stunting take a lot of athletic skill and practice. It’s hard work!
3. What does being a Highlander mean to you?
Being a Highlander means being dedicated and trying your absolute best; you shouldn’t make a commitment if you aren’t willing to put your heart into it.
4. What is your favorite movie, book or character and why?
I’m really bad at picking favorites… I like any movie or TV show with Steve Carell. Date Night is one of my favorites.
5. Share something no one knows about you.
I have four chickens.
Your dedication to your school and community is much appreciated Kelly! And you have good taste in television.
Do you know someone who should be featured here at Take Five? Let us know! Email us at njoffice@strausnews.com. We want to feature all the great kids here in West Milford.
Bonus Five
6. Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration is my coach. The amount of work and time she puts into our team is incredible. She is extremely dedicated to us and takes her job as a coach seriously. She allows our team to feel like a family.
7. Who is your favorite teacher of all time and why?
I love all the teachers in the art department. Mr. Jacklin is one of my favorites too.
8. Name three things you would bring with you if you were on a deserted island.
I would bring lots of ice cream, a really good book, and my dog to keep me company.
9. Share a favorite moment with your group/club/team.
I love bonding with my team on our trip to Nationals each year. Two years ago we went to Disney World and it was so much fun. It was awesome to be in the Florida heat in the middle of February!
10. What do you do with your time when you are not cheering?
I make art, work at Dairy Queen, and catch up on sleep when I’m not cheering.