Kendal Bedenbaugh admits to being a little stubborn, at times. So when the Marion senior injured her back last year and was told she'd never cheer again, she set out to prove that prognosis wrong. Bedenbaugh's persistence paid off Tuesday afternoon when the intelligent cheerleader signed a letter of intent to cheer at Lyon College in Batesville. Lyon offers a competitive cheerleading program led by Jennifer Kite. “I was told that I wouldn't be able to cheer in the future, and that was so devastating to me,” said Bedenbaugh. “But, luckily I recovered, and it didn't take as long as I thought it might to get back.” Bedenbaugh, who has cheered competitively for 12 years, leaves quite the legacy at Marion High School. “Kendal has so many strengths academically and as an athlete,” said Marion cheer sponsor Lauren Brinkley. “She's an extremely determined person who always goes above and beyond to achieve her goals. During her time here, she's always been an unbelievable teammate, and I think that's something that's always served her well, and will continue to serve her well.” “My favorite part about cheering at Marion has always been my teammates,” said Bedenbaugh. “Anytime I was able to spend time with my teammates was the best. Any team I've ever been on I've always loved my teammates to death.” Bedenbaugh has performed in a few roles for Marion cheer, but she expects to focus on flying once she arrives in Batesville.