For Sessions, signing with Wyoming is the fulfillment of a longtime goal and the beginning of a new chapter.
“I am super excited to attend the University of Wyoming,” Sessions said. “Being a Cowboy means being a part of something bigger than yourself.”
Sessions explained that her connection to the university started several years ago after attending a cheer camp with her brother. From that moment, she knew Wyoming was where she wanted to be.
“I went to a cheer camp with my brother a couple years ago and fell in love with the cheer team and wanted to be a part of it,” she said. “So I started to go to more camps that they put on and now I’m a Cowgirl and cannot wait to cheer on the Pokes.”
Throughout her time at SVHS, Sessions has built a reputation as both a dedicated athlete and supportive teammate. She credits her high school experience for preparing her for college athletics and academics.
“It helped me build a stronger work ethic and be goal-oriented and dedicated for things that you want,” Sessions said. “It also helped me stay on top of my school work because school comes before athletics, which are valuable lessons I will be taking to Laramie.”
As she prepares for college, Sessions says she is especially excited for game days and becoming more involved through the cheer program.
“I am so excited for Game Days,” she said. “Being a part of the cheer teams means I’ll get to be even more involved, which makes me even more excited.”
Teammate Kendyl Madsen said Sessions has made a lasting impact on the Star Valley cheer team through her positivity and encouragement.
“Harper is a very fun and supportive teammate,” Madsen said. “She is always happy for everyone’s success and builds the team up.”
Madsen also said many people may not realize how much effort Sessions puts into everything she does.
“She puts in a lot of effort into the activities she chooses to participate in and is committed to them 100%,” Madsen said.
When asked what memory stands out most from cheering alongside Sessions, Madsen pointed to her uplifting attitude and willingness to help others.
“She is always so uplifting and kind,” Madsen said. “She is always willing to work with and help everyone, and she is so supportive of us inside and outside of cheer.”
Star Valley cheer coach Faith said she has seen tremendous growth in Sessions throughout high school, especially in leadership.
“During her junior year, Harper served as the Captain of the Varsity team,” Faith said. “It was an incredibly difficult position that really brought her leadership abilities to light. Harper was kind and inclusive and determined to make the experience of Star Valley High School Cheer a positive one.”
Faith also praised Sessions for the work she put in outside of practice to improve both as an athlete and as a person.
“Harper worked countless hours outside of practice to personally experience growth as a cheerleader but also worked to be a better leader and friend,” she said.
According to Faith, Sessions’ dedication and positive attitude will help her succeed at the University of Wyoming.
“Harper is one of the most dedicated athletes I’ve had the privilege of coaching,” Faith said. “She is passionate about cheer and has worked extremely hard to be a competitor. I know that her motivation to succeed, her genuine positivity and radiant kindness will serve her well at UW.”
Faith also reflected on the accomplishments of this year’s cheer team and the role Sessions played in its success.
“The team that I coached this year was easily one of the most talented Star Valley High School has ever seen,” she said. “These kids were performing college-level stunts. Harper was an integral part of that team and her attitude and work ethic strongly contributed to our success.”
Beyond athletic success, Faith said she is most proud of the team’s character and sportsmanship.
“I am easily most proud of the Sportsmanship Award that this team has won two years in a row because they are some of the best humans I know, and that includes Harper and her golden heart,” she said.
As graduation approaches, Sessions leaves behind a strong legacy and looks ahead to cheering for the Cowboys in Laramie this fall.
