[

](http://careyindiana.com)

INDIANAPOLIS – Courtney H. is an elementary music teacher who for two years was a dance team member at Anderson University.  She was a Dean's List student every semester who also was a multiple-time title winner in the Miss Ohio/Miss America system.

The 2014 season will be her first with the Indianapolis Colts Cheerleaders.

Questions and Answers with Courtney H:

What is your educational background and occupation?

College:  Anderson University; Degree:  Music Education; Occupation:  Elementary music teacher.

**

**

What is your dance experience?

I was a member of the Anderson University Dance Team for two years, performing in various musicals and plays.

What are your significant awards/achievements?

I graduated Magna Cum Laude in music education (bachelor's degree) from Anderson University, making the Dean's List for every semester.  I held three local titles in the Miss Ohio/Miss America system and was a Top 10 semi-finalist at Miss Ohio 2011.

Do you have any fitness achievements or public speaking experiences of note?

I am training for a 5k Women's Tough Mudder.  I have been a keynote speaker/entertainer at various library, nursing home, hospital, restaurant, and school speaking engagements through the Miss Ohio/Miss America system.

What is your greatest accomplishment?

I honestly think my greatest accomplishment is now being a member of the best cheerleading squad in the NFL, while still being able to maintain my dream teaching job!  It is truly a dream come true.

What is an interesting fact about yourself?

In 2008, I performed as a dancer/entertainer at Miss Ohio, and had so much fun I decided to compete in pageants myself.  I ended up competing at Miss Ohio for the next three consecutive years, making it into the Top 10 in 2011!

What is your favorite thing about Indianapolis?

I love the fact that Indy has all of the "big city" activities that you can imagine, but it still maintains that small-town, Midwest vibe that is unique to us. 

Why did you decide to audition for the Colts Cheerleaders?

I was first struck by the talent of the girls when I attended a Colts game last fall and of course, that appealed to me instantly!  As I researched the cheerleaders more and learned about all of the fabulous community service opportunities this job would provide me, I was hooked and knew I had to be a part of it. 

What was the most difficult part of the audition?

SORE HAMSTRINGS! You don't see kick lines every day as an elementary music teacher.  But in all seriousness, juggling the workouts, healthy eating, full-time work, social commitments and the evening audition commitments was definitely a challenge, but still very fulfilling!

What did you take away from the audition process?

Your mental, emotional, and spiritual strength is what will carry you the farthest, beyond what any physical strength can.

What are you looking forward to the most being a Colts Cheerleader?

I am most looking forward to the relationships and connections that this opportunity will bring me, both with my teammates and the fans!

What does the Horseshoe mean to you?

The Horseshoe represents to me an undying devotion and loyalty.  The support that you will find within this organization as a whole is astounding, and I am humbled and honored to now be a Sweetheart of the Horseshoe!

Explain your feelings and thoughts about your first game day.

I have heard that the first game day is like no other!  I know standing in that tunnel and feeling the adrenaline pumping from the crowd will be the most nerve-wracking and exhilarating moment of my life.  I cannot wait to get out on that field and cheer on our "boys in blue!"