Rising Star:A Kyra Cooney-Cross Story

Chapter 5:Mentors, Role Models and Rivals

Kyra’s journey as an athlete has been shaped by a diverse set of figures each leaving a lasting impact on her game and outlook. From inspiring coaches to fellow players, both teammates and competitors, her relationships have influenced her development in unique ways.

Kyra's first mentor was her high school coach, Coach Stevens. He saw potential in Kyra from the start, even when she doubted herself. His tough love approach pushed her to break through her limits. "He wasn't the most affectionate," Kyra admits, "but he made me believe that talent alone wasn’t enough—hard work, discipline, and mental toughness were just as crucial."

Coach Stevens taught her to own her mistakes, celebrate her victories in moderation, and always focus on growth. “The game changes constantly,” he used to say. “If you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind.”

As Kyra began playing at higher levels, her role models shifted from those she watched on TV to the players she encountered on the field. One of her earliest inspirations was Sophia Martinez, a seasoned player known for her poise under pressure. Sophia wasn’t just a technical genius; she was a leader by example, commanding respect through her calm yet intense presence.

Kyra recalls a specific moment during a high-stakes game. With the score tied and the clock winding down, she panicked and missed a critical play. It was Sophia who pulled her aside. “She didn’t say much—just told me to breathe and reminded me that mistakes happen. Then she showed me how to move forward, not just in the game but mentally.” From that moment, Kyra learned the importance of resilience and maintaining composure in even the most difficult situations.

Kyra’s rivals have been just as formative. Her fiercest competitor, Jasmine Lee, pushed her to become better in every aspect. Jasmine was known for her aggressive style of play, unrelenting drive, and ability to turn any match into a duel of wills. “Playing against Jasmine was exhausting—mentally and physically,” Kyra admits. "She was always one step ahead, and it forced me to step up my game."

But over time, Kyra grew to respect Jasmine. Through their rivalry, she realized that it was Jasmine's intense work ethic and unshakable focus that set her apart. “I started emulating that in my own training. I stopped fearing her and started learning from her.” In time, their rivalry became a source of mutual respect, and they would exchange notes on the field, pointing out each other’s weaknesses in a way that helped them both improve.

Kyra’s relationships with her teammates have also been instrumental. Each player she has worked alongside taught her something different. For example, Rachel Turner, her longtime teammate, taught her the value of communication on and off the field. Rachel had a knack for making everyone feel seen and heard, a skill that Kyra would later adopt as she took on leadership roles.

“One thing Rachel always emphasized was that the game wasn’t just about individual brilliance—it was about how you meshed with the team. She showed me that chemistry and communication were just as important as strategy.”

As Kyra moved through her career, she found herself stepping into a mentor role for younger players. It was a strange shift, being the one others looked up to, but it allowed her to reflect on all she had learned. “When I see the younger players making the same mistakes I did, it reminds me of how far I’ve come and how much I owe to the people who shaped me.”

Ultimately, Kyra’s journey as a player is intertwined with the lessons she’s absorbed from those around her. Her mentors, role models, teammates, and even her rivals have helped craft her into the competitor and leader she is today. Through their guidance, competition, and collaboration, she has learned not only how to be a better player but a better person on and off the field.

In Kyra’s words, “You can’t go it alone in this game. Everyone you meet has something to teach you, if you’re willing to listen.”