Have you read stories where a coach talks about one of his athletes that has a “high motor’? Well, Muskogee High sophomore Ardyn Hughey has had a high motor since she was a toddler which helped get her to where she is today. “When I was little, I was always running around and had a lot of energy, so my parents got me into gymnastics to channel some of that energy, I guess,” Ardyn laughed. “I found out I really enjoyed it and had some natural talents for it, so I was into competitive gymnastics by age 6. I am a three-time regional qualifier and have traveled to Texas, Colorado and elsewhere to compete and am now a level nine (out of 10) gymnast. When I got to high school a lot of my friends were into dance, and I wanted to try something new, so I got into dance too. I considered going into cheer at one point, but I thought my personality was better suited to dance where I could express myself a little more maybe. Getting into dance really helped me make the move from middle school to high school easier because it helped me get out of my shell a little especially with my best friend Sydnee Lane and coach (Kyah) Fields helping me.” Ardyn thanked her parents for instilling a sense of drive and competitiveness to go along with her boundless energy. “My mom was a cheerleader and always competitive and I think a lot of that rubbed off on me and my dad has always been my number one supporter and fan,” said Ardyn who will be in a leadership class at MHS this fall. She has continued to be a competitive gymnast and is now coaching little kids in Tulsa. As she gets ready for her second year in high school her goals are pretty simple. “I’m going to focus more on my academics this year and try to help us finish in the top five at dance nationals.” Given her gymnastic talents, has she ever thought about a run at the Olympics? “I thought about it at one point, but it would mean a lot of work and I’d miss my chance to enjoy dance.”