By Ivy Knapp

For Shirin Mortazavi being part of the Sapulpa Pom dance team has shaped her high school experience. She has been dancing for almost four years and is entering her senior season as both a performer and leader.

“Being a student-athlete at Sapulpa is special to me because I have a big role in bringing the Chieftain spirit to Sapulpa High,” said Mortazavi.

Whether it’s at games, assemblies, or competitions, she takes pride in being part of what keeps school spirit going.

When asked about her favorite place to dance, she was quick to answer.

“The competition floor,” she said. “It’s the time when the whole team comes together to show everyone who we are and what we do. Seeing our coach overly excited to watch us is so amazing. Overall, it’s just an experience I wouldn’t change for the world.”

Mortazavi credits her parents as her biggest influences, saying they’ve taught her everything she knows about life and how to think about what’s ahead in the future. When asked about team influence, it’s the underclassmen who have stood out this year.

“My sophomore babies work so hard and prove to me every day that they are amazing,” said Mortazavi.

In the classroom, Mortazavi’s favorite subject is math, where she says things just click. She also has two teachers she thinks very highly of: Allison Hendrickson and Sarah Kellogg. “They’ve both altered my school life in the most positive way possible, and I know I’ll always remember them.”

Mortazavi stays busy outside of Pom as well. She serves as Student Council President, is an executive member of the National Honor Society, and was nominated to the National Society of High School Scholars.

On the team, her role has changed as she’s taken on more of a leadership role as a senior.

“My job is to be a leader for the underclassmen,” she said.

That leadership also shows in the long hours of preparing to be your best. The squad spends nearly 13 hours each week practicing for competitions.

She still remembers the seniors from her sophomore year as the ones who left the biggest impression on her.

“That team was so uplifting and close. I’ll never forget it,” she said.

Looking ahead, Mortazavi plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and study radiology. But before she moves on to the next chapter, she’s focused on making her last year with Sapulpa Pom one she’ll never forget.

“It’s an honor to go against all the amazing teams and cheer them on as they take the floor,” Mortazavi said. “I just want to make the most of every moment with my team.”