VYPE: What does it mean to you to be distinguished as an All-American?
Madison Rogers: It gives me a true feeling of accomplishment, especially knowing there are only a select few who are nominated.
VYPE: Does it feel like the work pays off when you get an award like that?
MR: Absolutely the work pays off. For years you push yourself to become better and many times coaches see the extra effort put forth. However, receiving All American confirms that all the times when others stopped and you kept going was worth it.
VYPE: How did you first get into dance, and how did you transition into cheer?
MR: Dance has been part of my life since I was 4 years old. I have always loved dance, feeling the rhythm, learning new steps, and performing on stage. Over the years doing these things has allowed me to build confidence to be myself and add that little extra sparkle and pep. As a seventh grader it was the first time cheer was offered as a sport at my school and I knew it would be the perfect fit, after years of dance. I could put my love for being in front of people to work as well as get the student body and fans excited and pumped up to cheer our Elks on.

VYPE: What are some ways you’re conscious of your personal nutrition? Why is nutrition an important weapon for an athlete?
MR: Nutrition is key and a way of life. The food we consume either builds us up or breaks us down. As an athlete especially, it is vital to get the nutrients needed to build, repair, and develop muscle. The foods I consume affect my body and metabolism which ultimately affects my performance as a cheerleader.
VYPE: Talk about your faith. Where do you go to church? Are you involved with FCA or similar organizations? How did you come into your faith?
MR: Our family attends “The Fount” which is a network church of Life Church. At school I have been a member of FCA for 4 years. I enjoy our monthly meetings and gathering with other athletes to grow and learn together through scripture. God has always been a priority in our home. As I grew up in church I learned so much and made the decision to put my full trust and faith in Him by asking God into my heart. I continue to grow by reading His Word daily which has made the greatest impact in my life and allowed me to have peace through the ups and downs of life.
VYPE: Who have been your great inspirations and role models in cheer?
MRL Gabby Butler tops my chart. She embraces so many great qualities as an exceptional cheerleader. I love her desire to teach others to become better cheerleaders by leading an example in fitness, competitiveness, and fun.
VYPE: What challenges have you faced as an athlete? How have you overcome them?
MR: Challenges are inevitable as an athlete and give the opportunity to grow and learn. Over the years I have pulled my hamstring and rolled my ankle multiple times forcing me to slow down and learn how I could prevent these injuries again. I cleaned up my diet and worked with a trainer on how to strengthen specific muscles and learned the importance of stretching.
VYPE: What advice would you give to your younger self?

MR: I came to live with my Grammy when I was 4 years old and as I look back over the years I have realized she has always been there to steer me in the right direction. Although I consider myself a good listener I could have saved myself from trials and heartaches if I would have listened better the first time. In the end I grew from those times and learned who to take advice from.
VYPE: What type of exercise do you do?
MR: You need to keep your body guessing so I like to switch it up through-out the week with a combination of strength band, HITT, weights and cardio.
VYPE: Obviously you have a knack for fitness. Do you see yourself becoming a personal trainer / nutritionist or something similar after high school?
MR: Absolutely!! I would love to do both. Teaching people the importance of nutrition and fueling their bodies with whole foods is key. Then adding workouts and getting adequate sleep are the next steps. Nutrition and fitness have always been a priority to me and I am excited to learn more and help others become the best versions of themselves.