For sophomore Shyla Weaver, sports have always been more than just after-school activities – they’ve been a huge part of who Shyla is and an important part of her day-to-day life. After transferring from Sabino to Sahuaro, Shyla has found herself thriving with confidence and flourishing in athletics.
At Sabino, Shyla was a cheerleader, but since moving to Sahuaro, she’s opened her heart to new sports and opportunities, such as joining the swim team and preparing for soccer season. “Soccer is definitely my favorite sport,” Shyla said. “It’s a very competitive sport, and I love that it’s a team sport. It’s different from swimming because you’re all working together as a whole.”
Her interest in swimming was new this year, stemming from her mom’s best friend suggesting that she try it out as a way to condition and prep for soccer. “She told me swimming is a really good conditioning strategy for soccer,” Shyla mentioned. “It was kind of an impulsive decision, but I loved it.”
Though it was her first year at Sahuaro and she was brand new to swim, the team’s energy made it easy to feel safe and welcomed. “The swim team was really uplifting, encouraging, and supportive,” she said. “No matter what time you got on your swim, you’d be congratulated and seen.”
Shyla credits a swim friend, Isabella, for helping her adjust and get used to being in a new place. “Isabella made me feel comfortable in what I was doing. She made me feel like I wasn’t alone and that everyone was once in the same position as me,” Shyla shared. “She’s just a very kind and welcoming person.”
Transferring schools was nerve-racking for her at first, but Shyla said Sahuaro has felt like the right fit since the start. “It’s been a lot better. I fit in more with people here,” she explained. “Everyone here has their own style and personality. At Sabino, I felt like I didn’t really fit in. But here, everybody is just different, and I love that.”
Participating in athletics has also helped her open up socially. “I’m not a very shy person anymore,” she said. “Since moving schools, I’ve felt okay expressing myself and being out there. I’m a lot more extroverted now – especially when I’m around the right people.”
Outside of sports, Shyla is involved in Sahuaro’s Bible Study Club and enjoys baking during her little amount of free time. Passionate about helping others, she dreams of becoming a nurse in the future.
“I love helping people feel safe and comfy,” she said. “Everybody should experience kindness and know that there are people willing to help.”
At just 15, Shyla is already balancing school, sports, and time for self-care – and it’s clear she’s only getting started.
