NEW MADRID, Mo. — There was lots to cheer about as two members of the New Madrid County Central High School Class of 2024 signed their letters of intent with Three Rivers College on April 16.

Shawna Robinson will join the TRC Raiders cheer squad and Makayla Birdwell will become part of the college’s mascot program.

Kayla Sparkman, cheerleading coach for TRC, said both young women will fit well into the school’s program.

“Shawna is going to make an amazing base for us next year. Her energy was what I really noticed during tryouts,” she said. “Makayla just has a lot of spirit. I am looking forward to her leading us into a lot of excitement.”

Robinson, who was co-captain of the NMCC Eagles cheer squad, was praised by her high school coach for her leadership.

“She brings a lot of personality to every practice and every game,”said Sharay Rucker. “I think she will fit in well (at Three Rivers), like she has been there the whole time.”

The daughter of Shawnda and Shawn Robinson, Robinson said she enjoys cheering. She explained it enables her to bring out her personality.

She said she chose Three Rivers, where she plans to study nursing, because of the size of the campus.

“I think Three Rivers will be just perfect for me. It is not too big, it is not too small and it is still close to home,” she said.

Birdwell, who served as the Eagle mascot, said she also liked the fact that Three Rivers was close to home. She said the school will also provide the opportunity for her to start her studies in occupational therapy in addition to being part of the mascot program.

Coach Jarett Allen said he first met Birdwell when he coached her in track in Middle School. He also coached and had Birdwell in class in high school.

“She has always been a wonderful student. She has a great attitude, is very cheerful and joyful to be around and she is always full of energy,” Allen said. “She brings a positive light in every room she walks in. I think she will be a wonderful asset to Three Rivers.”

Joining Birdwell at her signing were her grandparents Lois and Harold Pruitt, Malia Birdwell and Alex Edward.

Jill Bock - Standard Democrat