Brookelynn Taylor

Writer

Marlow High School Bootlegger of four years, senior Grace Banks has danced her way through high school and learned life lessons along the way.

Throughout her time on the squad Banks has accomplished many feats, including 2017 Pom State Runner Up Team, 2019 Kick State Championship Team, Oklahoma State Dance Team Directors Association (OSDTDA), Academic All-State 2017-2019, Universal Dance Association (UDA) 2019 Home Camp Drill Down Queen, UDA All American Dancer, and being the senior squad leader this year. 

Banks explained how Bootlegger taught her numerous lessons through the various hardships and victories she has experienced throughout her involvement.

“Bootlegger has taught me so many important lessons. Time management is something that I learned through bootlegger, and now I know how to prioritize and spend my time wisely,” Banks stated. “During my time as a Bootlegger, I have become aware of the importance of friendship and being a part of a team. Bootlegger has made me a better person by giving me lifelong friends that encourage me and love me in good times and bad times.”

From the hours spent practicing early each morning before school to the long bus rides to games, Banks has formed strong friendships with her fellow Bootleggers.

Having known Banks since the first grade, senior Bootlegger Melissa Cooper described how Banks has positively affected her life. 

“Grace has always kept me on my toes and in line,” Cooper said. “She is a constant reminder of always doing the right thing.”

Describing Banks’ bright personality, fellow Bootlegger and senior LeeAnne Riddle stated how determined and uplifting Banks is.

“Grace is a hard working individual who walks around with a smile shining so bright on her face,” Riddle said. “Grace is tenacious and excels with academics, sports and her extracurricular activities.”

With all of these years passing by quickly, Banks stated her favorite aspect about being a Bootlegger.

“My favorite part of being a Bootlegger is all of the memories I have made,” Banks said. “Dancing at halftime, going to camp, team dinners, making posters, riding the bus to games, sleepovers and bonding with teammates are all things that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”

With this being Banks’s last year at Marlow High School, she will continue to plan her future as a college student.