CERES, CA (WCMH) – A Ceres High School student is redefining what it means to stay on her own two feet.

For the second year in a row, 16-year-old Mariah Mercer played center in her high school powderpuff football game in a wheelchair.

“It’s fun, it’s nerve wracking because I always feel like what if I drop the ball or what if this happens,” she told KTXL. “But, I always second guess myself, but I do fine.”

Mariah has spina bifida, a birth defect that caused severe nerve damaged and confined her to her bright pink wheelchair. And the gridiron isn’t the only thing she’s conquering. This year, Mariah tried out for cheerleading and secured a spot on the varsity squad.

“And this, I just love being out there an actually people seeing that I’m doing it,” Mariah said.

Mariah’s parents are big supporters and have always encouraged her to go after her goals.

“To me, it makes it special because…It’s very inspiring that she doesn’t let anything hold her back,” said Mariah’s mom Lisa as she held back tears of pride.

For anyone who thinks they have a reason to sit life out, Mariah has one simple message.

“Don’t ever let anything hold you back.”