GCHS cheerleader signs with UT Martin

By Lori Cathey 

Gibson County High School football cheerleader Julie Allen’s dream recently came true when she officially signed an athletic scholarship with UT Martin during a ceremony held at GCHS in front of family members, coaches, friends, fellow cheerleaders, and school administration.

Allen is the first cheerleader from Gibson County to sign for an athletic scholarship. 

“It was an easy decision for me,” said Allen. “They have a very good program and I already know some of the cheerleaders. Plus it is close to home and my mother and brother both went to UT Martin.”

Allen started cheering and gymnastics at the age of four. She was a member of the GCHS football cheerleading squad for two years, All-Star Cheerleading for three years, and G-Force All Stars her senior year.

UT Martin cheer and dance coach Jessi Woody stated, “Julie is a great asset to the UTM cheerleading squad, and I’m looking forward to seeing what she will accomplish while at UT Martin.”

Allen will be one of 11 freshmen on the 23-member squad for the 2018-19 academic year. She will perform at all home games for basketball and football.

Sally Baird, GCHS cheerleader coach said, “She is one of the hardest working and consistent members of our squad, but what really sets Julie apart is her toughness. I’m so proud of her and this great opportunity she has to get an education and continue to cheer.”

Julie is the daughter of Michael and Lori Allen of Kenton. While attending UT Martin, Allen will be majoring in Health and Human Performance.

NEW SKYHAWK – During Monday’s signing ceremony Jessi Woody, UT Martin cheer and dance coach, presented Julie Allen a UT Martin T-shirt. (Photo by Lori Cathey)