Caitlin is not your typical gymnast at 5 feet 6 inches. Her gymnastics career began at 3 years old. Caitlin always has a smile on her face and is to quick to make friends with her teammates and fellow competitors. Her compassion and cheery disposition make her an essential component to a positive training environment which we all could use a little more of. She continues to be a role model for young girls who want to be a strong healthy gymnast. This season Caitlin broke a bone in her foot and needed surgery to heal it. Unfortunately, this made her miss her Senior Season, but with love and support from her teammates, she has kept up good spirits. She was in a cast for 6 weeks and a boot for another 6 weeks. She is hoping to regain her leg strength starting in March to be ready for Regionals in April. This is just another speed bump in the road for Caitlin who knows slow and steady wins the race. Patience now will pay off in the long run.
Caitlin had early success in gymnastics winning many events and all-around titles. One of her highlights was winning the Level 8 NC State All- Around title and competing on the State Team in Regional Championships and winning first place with her team. When Caitlin reached level 9 and began to grow several inches every month, she began to question herself about whether or not she could continue to do the sport she loved at the level she wanted. Growth spurts, injuries, and self-doubt began to creep into the picture. Fortunately working with her coaches, teammates and physical therapists, she was able to safely rehab her injuries and train her level 10 skills getting her fire and confidence back. She knew that she wanted to compete college gymnastics one day and did not want to give up on that dream.
She has competed level 10 the past 3 years and competed in two National Championships. She shares her joy for gymnastics with her teammates and choreographs several floor routines for her younger teammates, volunteers at gymnastics camp, and always has time to give a little gymnast a hug or high-five when they get a new skill. Caitlin's work ethic and commitment to gymnastics continue to inspire other girls that don't fit the mold. Don't let others decide your fate, be the best you can be is Caitlin's motto. She is very proud to say she has verbally committed to NC State Gymnastics Team and is truly grateful for all the blessing she has been given.
Caitlin is a well-rounded student that continues to train 24 hours a week at the gym while attending public school, and being involved in extracurricular activities. Caitlin gives back as much as she gets from the sport she has loved for the past 14 years. This is why she is my choice for Gymnast of the Year.
