By Jayden Oyler
In the bustling halls of Southmoore High School, 11th-grader Kaydence Pettit is making her mark, not just on the basketball court but also in the academic arena. Pettit recently achieved the impressive milestone of joining the National Honor Society, showcasing her commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
For Pettit, the game of basketball isn’t just about scoring points; it’s about effective communication. “Playing basketball has taught me that communication is key,” Pettit said. “It has shown me just how important effective communication is on and off the court.”
When reflecting on the influential figures in her academic journey, Pettit highlighted Mrs. Cai, her sophomore history teacher. “Mrs. Cai always made me feel heard and loved,” Pettit said. For inspiration, Pettit looks no further than her Granddad, admiring his unwavering determination. She shared, “He never lets anything stop him from doing something, and that’s the mindset I want to have.”
Teammates can be the driving force behind an athlete’s success, and for Pettit, Brianah Wren holds a special place. “Brianah Wren, I call her my lifelong teammate. She always pushed me even without knowing it,” Pettit remarked.
Representing Southmoore High School in basketball brings Pettit a unique sense of pride. “Getting to show off my talent” is the aspect she enjoys the most, relishing the opportunity to showcase her skills and contribute to her team’s success.
In terms of advice, Pettit shared a mantra close to her heart: “To not let other people get in my head and to keep a positive mindset.”
Beyond her athletic and academic pursuits, Pettit is actively engaged in nursing classes at Moore Norman, with plans to become a certified CNA next year.
As she expresses gratitude, Pettit offers a heartfelt shoutout: “The BIGGEST shout out to my Mimi and Granddad for always being my number 1 supporters in everything I do.” The support from her family is the driving force behind Kaydence’s determination and success in all aspects of her life.
