Alyssa LeeAnn Matney was a remarkable young woman who touched the lives of many through her dedication and passion for cheerleading. As a Flames Cheerleader, Alyssa's enthusiasm and commitment were evident in everything she did. She blossomed from a shy little girl into a beautiful and outgoing individual, excelling in gymnastics, dance, cheer, and modeling to name a few hobbies. Alyssa spent countless hours perfecting her cheer routines, often practicing in the family room or on the back of her Dad's tow truck when she wanted a 'stage'. Her vibrant spirit and infectious energy made her a beloved member of the Lake Zurich community. Alyssa joined the Flames when she was 5 years old and quickly considered them to be family and would volunteer every opportunity she could, from roadside cleanup to car washes. By the time she turned 12 years old she had decided to become a Junior Coach for the incoming kindergartners. As she explained it, she wanted to do for them what her junior coaches had done for her. She took great pride in coaching her "littles," as she liked to call them.

Alyssa's journey was not without its challenges, but her resilience and positivity shone through even in the toughest times. Despite facing severe health issues, Alyssa remained a source of inspiration and strength for her family and friends. Her story is a testament to her unwavering determination and the love she had for those around her. Alyssa's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and our hope is for her memory to inspire future generations of cheerleaders and coaches. She is deeply missed, but her spirit will forever be a guiding light for the Lake Zurich Flames and the entire community.