Spotlight on Sports

Pea Ridge High School cheerleading coach Courtney Hurst.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

— Courtney Hurst

What is your job title?

I teach seventh-grade math and coach the high school cheerleading.

What does coaching the cheerleaders entail?

I coach cheer for spirit at games and also for competitions.

Where are you originally from? I’m from here.

Where did you go to college? I went to Arkansas Tech.

What is your degree?

My degree is in biological sciences and I also got my degree in education.

What was your first job out of college? I was a chemistry analyst for a testing company.

How long have you been teaching/coaching in Pea Ridge? This is my sixth year. I had the opportunity to do a long-term substitute position. I really liked it and was encouraged to go back and get my education degree.

Did you play sports in high school and/or college? In high school I played basketball, softball, golf and I was a cheerleader. I played intermurals in college.

What is one of the most memorable moments about coaching in Pea Ridge? Overall, it’s whenever my kids graduate then contact me later and say “Thank you, you helped me a lot.” It’s when they tell me I was a positive role model.

How has Pea Ridge changed since you have been teaching here? As far as cheerleading, it’s more respected now. Also, it has become a sport, it’s recognized through the state, the athletic association. There is more of an athletic opportunity for kids at the collegiate level.

What are your hobbies outside of work? I love spending time with my husband and daughter and family, we’re really close. I also like to work out, be outdoors and play softball.

What do you think is the most challenging thing about teaching kids this age? Teaching them how to be responsible and productive teens.

The unknown - they’re not used to it.

Sports, Pages 7 on 02/17/2010