Friends Rooting For Azle Homecoming Queen Candidate

Update (9/30 10:00 p.m.) - Mariah Slick was crowned the 2011 Azle High School Homecoming Queen Friday night following a campaign by students to nominate her.

AZLE (CBSDFW.COM) - Mariah Slick doesn't miss many of her school's games.  Thursday night she was there early cheering on the Azle Junior High volleyball team.

She cheers for friends, fellow classmates, and even the other team.

"She is well liked by everybody," says friend Jordan Arnold. "She is sweet – a real sweetheart!"

Even the Azle High School senior's parents didn't realize just how much she was liked.  "I never dreamed she would be nominated homecoming queen, especially since she has special needs," says Mariah's mom Susan Slick.

Mariah, 18, was born with Down Syndrome and could be the next homecoming queen at Azle High School.

She's an excellent student, plays sports and was even cheerleader.  She's now getting ready for one of the biggest nights of her life.

The homecoming queen will be announced during halftime at the Azle High School football game Friday night.  She's already got her dress and mum and says she can't wait.

Her father can't stop smiling either, and looks forward to escorting her on the football field.

Mariah's parents say no words can express what's in their hearts, which they say are almost bursting with joy.  "For the kids in the school to love Mariah and nominate her, I feel so blessed and so honored," says Susan Slick. "I'm so happy, excited and nervous!"

Mariah is among four girls nominated for the title.  Students say they've started a campaign for Mariah, and will make sure word spreads to vote for her.

It's all to support a kind spirit who has always supported her school.