The stopwatch, the tennis court and the cheer mat all ask something different of Briella Miranda. For the Altus High School sophomore, however, the common thread is simple: keep a positive mindset, keep working and enjoy the people around her.
Miranda is a three-sport athlete for the Bulldogs, competing in cheer, swimming and tennis. She serves as a back spot in cheer, swims freestyle and backstroke events, and has played both singles and doubles in tennis. Moving between sports means adapting to different teammates, challenges and expectations, but Miranda embraces the opportunity.
“My family” is what motivates her most, while her older sister has become the role model she looks to in athletics and in life.
“My biggest role model is definitely my sister,” Miranda said. “She has taught me to work hard, be loyal and trust in the Lord.”
That perspective has helped Miranda build a foundation for success. Rather than focusing only on results, she emphasizes the importance of attitude and perseverance.
“A positive mindset and motivation to keep going” are what it has taken to be successful in her sports, she said.
Her freshman year provided a pair of memorable milestones when she qualified for state in both swimming and cheer. The accomplishments were meaningful, but the shared experiences made them even more special.
“Going to state for swim and cheer freshman year has been the highlight of my career so far,” Miranda said. “Just being able to grow and make memories with everyone around me has also been great.”
Competition remains a major part of what drives her. On the tennis court, Miranda looks forward to matchups with Duncan, while in the pool she hopes to help Altus challenge Carl Albert. She also enjoys competing alongside, and against, her friend Avery in practice. The two have been teammates in swimming and tennis since middle school, and their similar skill levels make each practice more competitive.
Miranda also recognizes the work of younger athletes, pointing to freshman teammate Greenli as someone who deserves additional appreciation for the way she has performed.
Away from athletics, Miranda stays involved through Kay Club and National Honor Society and hopes to join ATI. Balancing those commitments with schoolwork requires discipline, especially when it comes to protecting time for homework, studying and sleep.
Teacher Mr. Reyna has also left a lasting mark on her by teaching her never to give up.
For Miranda, representing Altus is about more than competing. It is about carrying herself with respect, avoiding anger or disrespect, and enjoying every opportunity to wear her school’s colors.
