My high school cheerleading coach telling us we had to wear leggings under our skirts during school and banning us from any form of PDA in uniform caused an uproar.

Everyone was mad, and couldn't believe that we weren't even able to hug our boyfriends. What high school girl wants to hear that? It was drama. Chaos. Girls gone wild. Over silly rules.

My coach had a point, however. Cheerleaders are notoriously linked to negative perceptions and have high visibility on campuses, especially when football is a big deal. One person's actions could easily create a bad reputation for the team, and cause issues for our coach, answering to higher-ups.

With all of us invested in whirlwind high school relationships, none of us really wanted to hear that, though.

While my views on high school cheerleading as a sport don't necessarily follow suit with this article, (I know, I know. Sorry cheer fans.) I think this experience is a good example of the importance of public image.

As a student-athlete, I have been drilled on the idea that I represent my campus, and my actions are a direct reflection of my institution. How you present yourself to the world does have an influence on you, and what you represent.

I think professional athletes and those who are given the opportunity to hold public positions in society have a duty to follow these same standards; act responsibly, and hold their positions with grace and dignity.

With social media and the constant ability for people around the world to know the actions of one another in an instant, this has become increasingly challenging for those in esteemed positions. Personal life has blended with public life. One mistake can now be elevated to a career-ending move. Where should we draw the line? What qualifies as part of the growing up process, and what is too reckless?

For those in the public presence, I would contest that the importance of image and being a role model for those who look up to you is something that is expected and comes with the territory.

While parents of children do have the choice to monitor what their children are exposed to, I think there is also a choice that individuals make, and what they allow to become public. As a public figure, you are not only representing yourself, but also whatever you are apart of. For athletes, that often falls under the context of your country. The honor given to represent your country should be done so with pride and respect.

For a while, I didn't get this. Cheer and my personal interests conflicted.

I see how easy it is for athletes to get side tracked. But looking at all of the kids who aspire to be athletes today, as I stand here as one, prompts me to reconsider how I present myself in public and on social media.

If as a college athlete this is something I consider, I don't think it's too much for a professional athlete or public figure to do either. After all, we all were once that kid in the bleachers, watching those on the field in awe. Let's challenge ourselves and our public figures to be something to aspire to, and keep the magic alive.