Bremen High School Student-Athlete of the Week-Ameya Rosales White

Senior Ameya Rosales White plays a pivotal role on the Bremen cheerleading team. An experienced gymnast, Ameya brings unique skills that allow the team to execute more challenging routines, ultimately scoring higher in competitions. Not only does she exemplify the qualities of a standout cheerleader and captain, but her dedication to academics and community service makes her a true model of what it means to be a student-athlete. It’s no surprise that she has been named Bremen High School’s Student-Athlete of the Week.

Ameya’s journey to becoming captain began early—at just two years old—when she started gymnastics. “I started gymnastics at 2 and began cheerleading when I was 7,” Ameya shares. “I always focused more on gymnastics than cheerleading, so when I got to high school, I wasn’t always familiar with the terms being used. But when I joined as a sophomore, I immediately fell in love because we treat each other like family and have grown together throughout high school.”

Ameya’s mother, Rosa Rosales, reflects on the impact gymnastics has had on her daughter, saying, “I think being involved in sports and on a team at a young age has helped her learn to work well with others. It has also made her a competitive athlete who takes pride in everything she does.”

Head coach Rouchelle Thurmon quickly recognized Ameya’s talents. “Ameya is the best tumbler on the team. As a formally trained gymnast, she elevates the entire team’s performance. She’s also very knowledgeable about cheerleading and takes the time to mentor newcomers in motions, stunts, and tumbling.”

Between football, basketball, competitive cheer seasons, and summer workouts, cheerleading demands a significant time commitment. Yet Ameya still finds time to give back as an instructor at the United Gymnastics Academy (UGA) in Tinley Park. “Being an instructor at UGA, a student, and a cheerleader has helped Ameya develop excellent time-management skills,” says Coach Rouchelle.

Rosa agrees, noting how her daughter has grown during her time at Bremen. “I’ve seen Ameya mature so much. Being on the cheer team has taught her responsibilities she applies in real-life situations, like being on time and understanding that all actions have consequences, both positive and negative.”

As the cheerleading squad dives into competition season, Ameya is optimistic about their chances at sectionals. “We talked all off-season in our group chat about placing well at sectionals. We looked online for inspiration to improve our routines and added more complicated stunts to help us score higher,” she explains.

Ameya doesn’t just shine on the mat; she’s also an exceptional student. With a 4.64 weighted GPA, she tackles rigorous courses like Advanced Composition, Honors Spanish 2, and Honors Anatomy and Physiology.

Willus Vivian, Ameya’s Honors Anatomy and Physiology teacher, praises her character, saying, “Ameya consistently demonstrates an incredible ability to connect with others and show genuine care for their well-being. Her communication skills stand out in any setting—she listens attentively and responds thoughtfully, making those around her feel heard and valued.”

Although Ameya hasn’t finalized her college plans, she hopes to attend a four-year university where she can continue cheerleading and pursue a degree in nursing. “My mom is a nurse, and during Covid, I saw just how determined and hardworking she is,” Ameya shares. “I even got to shadow her at work and realized nursing is exactly what I want to do.”

Willus believes Ameya’s compassion and communication skills make her well-suited for the field. “She possesses the empathy, determination, and interpersonal skills needed to excel in nursing and make a meaningful difference in her future patients’ lives.”

As Ameya prepares for her final semester and competitive season, Bremen and the cheerleading team are already feeling the impact of her upcoming graduation. “Ameya is a joy to work with—she’s talented and incredibly knowledgeable,” says Coach Rouchelle. “She’s going to leave a huge void on the team when she graduates.”

Looking back on her time at Bremen, Ameya has some advice for future Braves. “Be yourself and don’t feel like you have to change for anyone. Be open to asking questions if you’re struggling, and don’t follow the crowd—find what you enjoy, and you’ll find your people.”

Ameya has helped create her own legacy at Bremen, one based on pursuing her passions and always being open for an opportunity to improve herself as a student, athlete, and person. As she helps lead the cheer team into competition season, her passion and knowledge will help play a crucial role in the squad achieving their goals.