SPEEDWAY HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS

Today, we celebrate Sofiyat Lawal, a senior student-athlete at Speedway High School. Sofiyat is a cheerleader and she also participates in track at Speedway. In both instances, it is easy to say that Sofiyat is a positive contributor to the team. “Sofiyat has cheered since she was in seventh grade,” said Amber Holbrook, the head coach for this year’s cheerleading squad. “She is a wonderful asset and is the true definition of a cheerleader. Whether it’s cheering on the sidelines at a game, offering words of encouragement during challenging times or her dedication to here squad and school.” “She is a natural teacher and leader.” Voted the team’s most dedicated athlete for her junior year, Sofiyat was also recognized as Miss Sunshine at a convention of the Universal Cheerleading Association. “The youth cheerleaders admire her so much,” noted Holbrook. She would fill in at games when others weren’t able to coach. Her dedication and dependability shows in everything she is a part of.” “The sports I play give me the opportunity to be a part of something,” said Lawal. “I love both sports and the teams make me feel valued and appreciated. And my cheer coach is the best coach I’ve ever had, she’s always there for me whenever I need her to be.” You’ve probably seen Sofiyat in the hallways with Ella Hill, a fellow member of the Class of 2024. That’s not by accident. The Hill’s have played a major role in Sofiyat’s life. “They have taken me in as a fourth child and fourth granddaughter since I moved to America from Nigeria in 2017,” said Lawal. “I’ve never been more grateful for that. I love the Hill family so much and I am so glad to have them be a part of my life alongside my family.” “She (Sofiyat) is always willing to take initiative and demonstrates a commitment to make a difference,” noted Holbrook. Sofiyat plans on attending Indiana University or the University of Cincinnati where she plans on studying Fashion Design and Marketing. Sofiyat’s parents are Olasunbo and Akeem Lawal. She has three sisters (Simbiat, Sulihat, Sefinat) and one brother (Abdulakeem).