For Mannford senior Jocee Putman, success in cheerleading and soccer is built long before the lights come on for a performance or the opening whistle sounds.
A flyer for the Pirates’ cheer squad and a forward on the soccer field, Putman has learned that steady preparation, confidence and resilience are essential in both sports. As a varsity cheer captain this year, she carries a leadership role while continuing to push herself toward a higher standard.
“Something that motivates me in cheer is getting better everyday,” Putman said. “I know my capabilities, and I fight to be the best I can be.”
That mindset shows in the work she puts in away from school. Putman spends time stretching, practicing in front of the mirror and researching ways to improve her skills. As a flyer, she understands that every stunt requires trust, precision and a willingness to reset after a mistake.
“To be successful in any sport takes a lot of dedication and grit,” Putman said. “I take my position as a flyer extremely seriously. I do the absolute most to fight for every stunt, every performance, and just every practice to go as smooth and spotless as possible.”
Putman said her years in cheer have also strengthened her mentally. Falls and difficult skills are part of the process, but she has worked to keep them from defining her response.
“I do not let falls bring me down, and I will not let a skill scare me into not trying things,” Putman said. “I learned how to get up and stay up. It takes a lot, but the end result is more than worth it.”
One of the biggest moments of Putman’s cheer career came this summer at the Oklahoma State University NCA camp, where she and teammate Bradlee Koehn were each invited to become staff members the following year. The recognition, along with earning the title of varsity captain, marked a meaningful milestone for Putman.
“The highlight of my cheer career has got to be at the OSU NCA camp this summer,” Putman said. “I feel extremely seen and valued when college cheerleaders, people I look up to, ask me to join them.”
Putman credits her parents for establishing the example that drives her. Her mother taught her how to rise after failure, while her father’s work ethic has shaped the expectations she sets for herself.
She also values the chance to wear Mannford colors, especially during the annual rivalry matchup against Cleveland.
“To me, representing Mannford is an amazing blessing,” Putman said. “I love this town and the people in it. Mannford is the most caring, supportive, and encouraging town and community.”
