Since arriving at Montezuma-Cortez High School two years ago, Keyana Matteson has made the honor role, participated in numerous extracurricular activities and brightened the days of those around her with an infectious smile.
A three-year member of the M-CHS cheerleading team, Matteson spent the fall cheering on the Panthers football team. On Nov. 8, she helped M-CHS cheerleaders place second at their regional competition, and on Dec. 5, she traveled to Denver to compete at state.
“I like to have school spirit, and I like the competitions,” said Matteson, when asked what she enjoys about cheerleading. “It’s fun to see the crowds, and it’s fun to see excitement We also do a lot of fundraisers, and we try to help around the community.”
Soon after the conclusion of the fall cheerleading season, Matteson joined the M-CHS swim team for the first time and in just three months, has already made an impact.
In addition to helping several M-CHS relays to top-five finishes, Matteson placed sixth out of 39 swimmers in the 50-yard backstroke at the Montrose Invitational on Dec. 19.
“I like swimming a lot,” said the junior. “It has been really fun, and the team is great. I definitely would like to drop more time and improve.”
This spring, Matteson will hit the links as a member of the Dolores High School golf team. It will be her third year on the team, and she has high hopes entering the season.
“Golfing is different from a lot of the sports that I do because you have to concentrate a lot more,” said Matteson. “My goal for this season is to score under 100.”
When not pursuing athletic endeavors, Matteson participates in 4-H. She will raise pigs for the first time this year after decorating duds and decorating cakes in the past.
As for her future plans, Matteson said that she would like to attend the University of Utah and then go to medical school and become an OBGYN. In the meantime, she plans to continue excelling in school and pursuing athletic success in local fields, gyms, pools and golf courses.