I am so humbled to be nominated for the 2019 Gymnast of the Year! My gymnastics career began in a mommy and me class at 18 months old. By 2yo I was climbing to the top of a 20ft rope to earn the right to pick a trinket from the treasure box. At 6yo I began competing Xcel silver at Gymnastix Training Center in Buford, GA. I advanced each year from Xcel silver to Xcel gold to Level 7,9, and 10. I was a member of the Georgia State Team for Xcel gold (2014) and Level 7 (2015). I also qualified Hopes compulsory in 2016 and 2017.
Gymnastix Training Center discontinued their elite program in 2017 so I made the difficult decision to switch gyms. Jorgen Falk, co-owner of Georgia All Stars, took me under his wing for 4 months and gave me the encouragement I needed to continue the elite path. I finally found "home" at Georgia Elite Gymnastics in September 2017. I had an unforgettable 2018 season which began by earning my Jr. Elite compulsory qualifying score in Myrtle Beach, SC and placing 1st AA. The next elite qualifier was KPAC where I once again placed 1st AA and earned my Jr. Elite optional score and the chance to compete in the American Classic and US Classic.
I ended my 2018 JO Level 10 season at Nationals in Cincinnati, OH finishing 4th AA and being named to the JO National Team. At the conclusion of my 2018 season I sustained an injury which gave me time to reevaluate my goals. I had accomplished a huge goal that I set for myself but no longer felt the elite path was for me. I desperately missed competing with my "team". I petitioned back to JO in 2019 and spent much of the season recovering. I was able to compete at Regionals which qualified me to Nationals where I medaled in bars and beam and placed 11th AA. I am so grateful for the non-competitive opportunities that gymnastics has given me as well. I have attended the US Developmental Team Camp, the JO National Team Camp, 2018 Top Ten GOTY, currently representing Plum Practicewear as a Plum Ambassasor, modeled for the 2018 Ozone Leotard Fashion Show, modeled for Inside Gymnastics Magazine, mentoring young gymnasts, and meeting so many new friends!
I'm so excited for my future in this amazing sport and am focused on my dream of becoming a collegiate gymnast. Everyone has their own unique story....enjoy it and embrace the journey.
