Larissa is a small-town girl from Peru, IN. For years, she enjoyed the tradition of attending Colts games with her dad. "I would always find myself watching the cheerleaders more than I did the game," says Larissa. "My mom and dad talked me into trying out, and I'm thankful every single day that I took that chance." After experiencing her first season from the sidelines, she could not be happier!
Family plays a powerful role in Larissa's life. After being an only child for 13 years, her world changed the day her brother Logan came home from the hospital. "As soon as he was born, everything fell perfectly into place. I love being a good role model for him and watching him grow up more and more every day." Larissa works part-time at her mother's dress shop in their home town. "She has always been so hardworking and dedicated and everything she has ever done…and she's always been so supportive of me in everything I've ever wanted to do."
Larissa is a student at Ball State University studying organizational communications and journalism. After graduating, she wants to try her hand at event planning, then ultimately settle in a smaller town and start a family. She also volunteers as a "wish granter" for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. "It amazes me how strong and full of hope the Wish-children that I work with are!"
Her first season with the cheerleaders was an experience she handled with determination and bright smile. "All five of the captains this year have been such great influences." Larissa enjoyed the ALL-Pro3 dance convention in Atlanta and cheering at the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, OH. "It was a great opportunity for me, as a rookie, to bond with the rest of the squad." She is already excited to see what next season has in store!
