It’s that time of year. Senior athletes are officially announcing their commitment to colleges. This is especially the case at BPHS. Senior Isabella (Izzy) Parker, a backspot on the varsity girls competitive spirit team, recently committed to continue her academic and cheer career at Mercyhurst University!
Q: What was the first thing you felt or thought when it became official?
A: I was so proud of how far I’ve come, and I was excited because it’s been my goal since middle school.
Q: Why did you choose this school and cheerleading program? What stood out most to you?
A: I chose Mercyhurst because I clicked with the coaches and team, and it took my favorite parts of cheer and made it harder.
Q: Looking back, when did you first realize you wanted to do cheer in college?
A: Definitely middle school because when I started competing, I knew that it was what I was passionate about.
Q: Who’s been the biggest influence in your cheerleading journey—coach, family, teammate—and why?
A: I would have to say everyone who has supported me and pushed me to be better. But my family and coaches gave me numerous opportunities for me to get better and really showcase my skills.
Q: What aspect of cheer did you work the hardest on to reach this point?
A: I would have to say stunting because it’s not just something you can learn in a day, and there are constantly new things to learn about it.
Q: What’s a moment from your high school career that you’ll never forget?
A: This upcoming competition season, winning regionals with both routines and then going to nationals and becoming one of the seven best teams in the nation.
Q: How do you plan to balance college academics and cheer?
A: I definitely plan on utilizing my off time by studying and going to open office hours with my professors.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to younger players who dream of playing in college?
A: Do not be afraid to put yourself out there to college coaches and never turn down an opportunity to get better.
Q: What would you say to your younger self right now?
A: I would probably thank her for not giving up on cheer and sticking with it when it got hard.
Q: What are you most excited about heading into your first season at college?
A: I am excited to room with my teammate and be able to create new memories.
Q: Off the mat: How do you relax or unwind when you’re not training or studying?
A: I spend a lot of time with my family, my best friend, and babysitting my nephew and niece.
Q: Pregame ritual or song that always gets you hyped?
A: Since I started competing before every competition, I have to drink half a monster and listen to “Superstar” by Lupe Fiasco.
Q: Favorite player or college game you watched growing up?
A: Definitely Ryan Cea and Gabi Butler. I watched a lot of All-Star competitions and a lot of cheer shows.
Q: One word your teammates would use to describe you?
A: Dedicated
Izzy will major in Sports Medicine at Mercyhurst. Congratulations, Izzy!
