A Temple native just became an NFL cheerleader with the Houston Texans.
On Tuesday, 2016 Temple High School graduate Shakiia Rayson, 20, was announced as one of the 35 Houston Texans Cheerleaders.
"My parents said they freaked. My siblings were crying," Rayson said. "I'm just very thankful."
Rayson began as a competitive cheerleader and gymnast when she was a young child. For the last eight years, she has honed her skills at Powerhouse Cheer & Fitness in Belton. During high school, she also ran track and played volleyball. Currently attending the University of Texas at Austin, she will transfer to the University of Houston this fall.
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Texans cheer practice begins Wednesday. And, Rayson is already off to a strong start. She was selected as one of only four Texans cheerleaders who will perform on Day 3 of the NFL Draft on Saturday.
"It still doesn't feel real," Rayson explained. "I still can't believe I'm an NFL cheerleader."