The announcement came after a long wait in the stands, but it became a moment Aubrianna “Aubri” Hernandez will never forget.

When Altus High School’s cheer team heard its name called as the Game Day State 2025 runner-up, Hernandez was surrounded by teammates who had put in the same work, endured the same pressure and shared the same goal. For the Altus junior, it was one of the defining memories of her cheerleading career.

“[Hearing] our names being called for being state runner-ups was one of the best moments of my whole cheerleading career,” Hernandez said.

Cheerleading demands much more than energy on game day. Hernandez said success requires strength, dedication and the ability to remain mentally tough through practices, performances and the pressure that comes with representing a school.

“It has taken a lot of mental toughness,” she said. “But truly, at the end of every performance, it pays off.”

Hernandez finds her greatest source of motivation in her faith. She said the Lord inspires her to follow His example and bring love into her everyday life. That mindset influences the way she approaches cheer, school and her relationships with others.

Her parents have also shaped the person she is becoming. Hernandez calls them her biggest role models because of their work ethic, genuine character and ability to find a positive in every situation. She also credits former teacher Andrea Busby for making a meaningful impact during her sophomore year.

“[Busby] always made me feel heard and seen,” Hernandez said. “She’s a wonderful teacher and works so hard, and you can tell she loves what she does.”

Beyond cheer, Hernandez stays active across the Altus campus. She is involved in Kay Club, where she participates in service projects for the community, serves as a manager for the Altus girls soccer team and is a member of National Honor Society.

Managing those commitments alongside schoolwork takes planning and persistence. Even when her schedule becomes stressful, Hernandez keeps a long-term perspective.

“Sometimes it can be stressful, but then I just have to remind myself to keep pushing because it’ll all pay off one day,” she said.

Representing Altus is especially meaningful because Hernandez understands that younger students are watching. She wants to be a positive example while remaining true to herself.

“It’s so cool that little kids look up to us,” she said. “I have to remind myself that since I’m a huge influence on their lives, I have to be authentically myself.”

Supported by her parents, sister, boyfriend, friends and family, Hernandez continues to embrace every opportunity that comes with being a Bulldog.