Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Kody Lawton

Kody Lawton, 12, is a Level 4 competitive cheerleader with EVO Athletics. 

When did you start cheerleading?

This season will be my second year of cheerleading. I joined because my friend Hunter (Murphy) told me I should see if I liked it. I was a gymnast here before that. 

What is the appeal to you?

The bond you get with everyone. There is a welcoming, friendly vibe that you don't usually get at a gym. It makes you love it right away. 

What is your best skill?

In tumbling, my best skill is the back(flip) full. In stunts, it is the rewind to extend, which is a back tuck while extending your hands up. 

What is your favorite memory?

The day I met everyone in the cheerleading program and they welcomed me. I was pretty confident going in because I knew half the people already, but it was really fun. 

What has been your biggest challenge?

Gaining trust with everyone. You have to hold people up, or be held up, in order to do stunts. You have to have a bond to do that. 

What is your favorite food?

Steak. I get it cooked medium rare. 

What is your favorite TV show?

I love "Impractical Jokers." They pull pranks, it is so funny. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Shapeshifting. It would be cool to turn into anything I wanted. 

What is your dream vacation?

Going to Greece and Italy. 

What is your favorite subject?

I like history. I like knowing about the past, the wars we fought and how everything developed into today. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Stick to your heart and follow your own dreams, not other people's dreams. 

Finish this sentence: "Kody Lawton is ... "

... A hard-working, committed person who likes to do athletics.