BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Reese Blankenship, a senior cheerleader at Martin County High School, signed on April 16 at MCHS to continue her academic and athletic career at Eastern Kentucky University, where she plans to study elementary education.

Blankenship, daughter of DJ and Heather Blankenship of Inez, has been a member of the Martin County High School Cheerleading team for six years. 

Her signing is a significant milestone, noted as the first time a cheerleader from Martin County High School has signed with a Division I institution since the school’s opening and the first from the county in 20 years.

“Reese is an amazing athlete. She has overcome an injury and surgery this season and came out like a champ,” MCHS head cheer coach Nikki Moore bragged. 

“She always gives 110% effort and dedication. I’m proud to have been on the road to her dream of becoming an EKU cheerleader. I’m so excited to see what the future holds for her. She will be missed on the MCHS cheerleading squad.”

During Blankenship’s decorated career on the squad, she earned recognition as a UCA All-American Cheerleader. Her accomplishments also include achieving All-Star World Cheer Champion and two-time National Cheer Champion titles, along with multiple top finishes at KAPOS competitions, including Super Large KAPOS Cheer Champion and runner-up placements in various divisions and the 57th District. She also placed third at the All ‘A’ state Cheer competition.

Academically, Blankenship holds a 4.238 GPA and is a member of the honor roll, JAG Ky, Beta Club, Senior Travel Club and Yearbook. She is also the recipient of the 15th Region Jeannette Elder Memorial Cheerleading Scholarship.