Fleshman earns All-American Honors

From being a member of numerous clubs and activities to being named a United Cheer Association All-American, senior Emma Fleshman is wrapping up her four years at LPHS in style.

Fleshman first began her journey to becoming an All-American cheerleader when she began gymnastics in first grade. She continued to do gymnastics for another six years until she was introduced to competitive cheerleading in seventh grade, which she never stopped loving. 

The love has translated to her becoming captain this year, which brings her such joy.

“My favorite part about cheerleading would definitely be game days. I get really excited when I can watch all my friends out on the field or court playing, and at the same time, I get to be with my other friends cheering them on. It has such crazy energy to it, and I love it,” Fleshman said.

When Fleshman was younger, she was shy. As she grew older, she became more confident with herself and grew out her shell through cheerleading. She’s been able to make many friends because of the countless activities she does.

All of the hard work and preparation culminated in one of Fleshman’s biggest moments as a cheerleader–becoming a UCA All-American. She was chosen along with sophomore Leah DiCesare. Each year, the Slicer Cheer team attends a UCA summer camp to get ready for the upcoming season. At the end of the camp, the cheerleaders are allowed to apply to become an All-American, and the UCA coaches select athletes. Only 2% of the camp is selected for it, and Fleshman is now going to Hawaii to attend the Pearl Harbor Parade.

LPHS cheer coaches have noticed the same leadership and talent in Fleshman.

“One thing about Emma was that she was actually invited to try out to be a part of the UCA staff, which, for Indiana, there are only about 30 staff members. But Emma is a very good captain, she’s always organized and most of the time she’s even reminding us about what we have to work on,” Christine Lidgard, cheerleading coach, said.

On top of being a cheerleader, Fleshman is also a member of the National Honor Society, Technical Honor Society, American Sign Language Honor Society, American Sign Language Club, Girls Reserve, FCA, Principal’s Advisory Board, and she is running for president for Student Council. Being in so many activities can be stressful for Fleshman, but she believes it’s worth it because of the impact she can have on LPHS.

“Emma is an outstanding example for our student body. She is a leader and works for the greater good for all students. Emma is kind and compassionate and is an excellent choice,” LPHS principal Dr. Chris Alber said.

Fleshman believes school spirit is important and is grateful for LPHS for giving her an opportunity to become the person she is today.

“I hear so many people complaining about school, but I think that this school has given us such a chance to grow and be able to become our own person, whether it was because we were given the obstacles or we were helped through them,” Fleshman said.

When she isn’t spending her time on the field or at her clubs, Fleshman enjoys spending time outside with her friends and family, working out, and painting. 

Both in the classroom and on the field, Fleshman continues to make the best out of her high school career.