Mustang’s Lily Mills
By Elizabeth Contreras
At Mustang High School, cheerleading has become a significant part of one junior’s life, offering a profound sense of belonging. Lily Mills’ journey into cheer began unexpectedly during a tumbling class, where the energy of nearby cheer teams captivated her, leading her to pursue the sport. Nearly seven years later, Mills has poured her dedication into a sport she has grown to love. It was the sense of teamwork and a new kind of excitement that drew her to cheer.
“I enjoy cheer because I get to meet new people and bond over the same sport,” says Mills.
In her cheer journey, Mills is known for her kindness, consistently making others feel welcome and supported. On her team, she naturally steps into the role of motivator, keeping everyone focused and energized through challenging practices and routines.
“I help keep my team focused and motivated,” she says. One of her primary ways to encourage teammates is through “mat talk,” calling out encouragements during practice and competition to keep everyone hyped and focused on giving their best,” Mills said. “The most challenging part of cheer is pushing through the tiring and hard routines. I overcome this when my teammates encourage me and hype me up.”
Even on the hardest days, the energy of her team and the shared goal of perfecting a routine keep her going. Before taking the mat, Mills and her team gather for a tradition that fills them with strength, gratitude and a sense of unity.
“My favorite memory has to be when my team prays and sings worship songs before competing,” she notes.
Those moments remind her that cheer is a second family, and a source of encouragement and peace. These rituals help calm nerves and reinforce the trust and bond she has with her teammates.
Her commitment to cheer extends beyond just participating in games and competitions. She approaches practice with focus and energy arriving at every event on time with a positive attitude and a smile. In the classroom, she maintains a 4.0 GPA while taking advanced courses and is an active member of the National Honor Society.
After high school, Mills plans to attend college and pursue her career goals.
“I don’t see cheer being a part of my future after high school, but the life lessons that cheer has taught me will stick with me forever,” she reflects.
Mills describes her cheer experience in one word: ‘belonging.’
“Ever since being on my first team, I’ve never had a feeling of not fitting in with my teammates and feeling that I belong in the sport,” she adds.
For Mills, cheer has been a place where she feels at home, supported, and inspired to give her best every single time.
