Shivani Prado has stepped to the plate this cheering season like no other, says her Lake Region varsity coach Janine Rocca-Chaine.

“The growth I have seen in Shivani during this unusual time in school, as well as a cheerleader during an uncertain and unorthodox time, has been wonderful to watch. She brings pep when we need some uplifting words, as well as focus when it’s called for,” Coach Rocca-Chaine said. “Shivani understands the balance of having fun (obviously most important) while recognizing when it’s time to get serious and get things done. She is a leader among her peers and fellow cheerleaders and is looked to for guidance, answers and encouragement. As a coach, I have counted on her to step up when necessary and she has done so willingly and without complaint. Shivani 100% deserves to be recognized for her achievements and growth.” 

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Shivani is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Player of the Week: Shivani Prado

Year in School: Junior

Hometown: Bridgton

Parents: Jose Prado, Yara Grajales

Sports played: Cheering

Why did you choose cheering? I chose cheer as a spot because I felt like it would bring some positivity into my life. 

What do you enjoy most about this sport? What I enjoy most about cheer is the team and how we are our own little family. Being with the girls and having nothing to worry about other than cheer and each other is the best part of the sport.

How has competing in sports changed you as a person? Cheer has changed me in many ways, for example, it helped me keep my anger in check. At competitions, they’re not always team players, but as a LRHS cheerleader, we know how to be the bigger person. 

During this period of Covid-19, what has been the most difficult adjustment? The most difficult adjustment might have to be that we do not get to really cheer. We were not allowed to go to any of the games, and with the Covid guidelines, there are some skills that we were not allowed to do.

What is your favorite sports memory? I can’t pick one memorable sports moment because every day something happens with our team that becomes memorable moments. There was never a time when we weren’t laughing and acting like a bunch of kids just having fun. 

What is your most disappointing sports memory? The team’s most disappointing sports memory was having all the girls ready for games and sadly being told we wouldn’t have any games (to cheer at).

How has sports prepared you for your future? Cheer has shown me how to be a leader and a team player, not only that but it’s also shown me what it is to have something to work for and keep up on. 

Name a coach who has made a difference in your life and in what way?The coach who has made such a difference in my life is Janine Rocca-Chaine. She taught me what teamwork is and how to be a team player. My coach has never once given up on me or let me think that I can’t do something. She has always had faith in me and worked with me so I could grow and get better as a cheerleader and a person. 

What are your future goals? My future goals are to get into a college with a cheer team because cheer keeps me going. After I graduate, my plan is to become an elementary school teacher.