If you’ve ever watched the summer Olympics, you have probably wondered (like me) how those amazing athletes can flip, twirl and fly the way that they do! Not only does it look hard, it IS incredibly difficult to rise to the top in the sport of gymnastics…it takes immense effort, strength, and diligence to train to the top levels. The USA Gymnastics program goes from levels 1-10, and after 10, you move to the elite levels. Only a small percentage of girls who start in the lower levels make it all the way to level 10, because of the level of difficulty. That’s just what this incredible young lady has done, and more. Meet Hailey, a level 10 competitive gymnast from Seminole High School. She is a powerhouse who has competed at some of the top meets in the nation, such as the Nastia Luikin Cup. But although her gym roster is impressive, it’s her heart that sets her apart. Hailey is kind, humble, and a lovely young lady who deeply cares about others. She has spent over 100 hours of her very limited free time volunteering with Orlando Metro, Edgewood Ranch, and the Nativity Catholic Church. Edgewood Ranch is a faith-based, residential program for troubled youth that helps them with academics and behavioral struggles. I love that even with such a rigorous training and academic schedule, she always makes time to help others.
Her biggest accomplishment to date has been committing to Auburn University on a full ride scholarship for gymnastics. This is an amazing honor and she chose the school because of the deep Auburn traditions and the beautiful campus. Hailey said that making it this far in her sport has taken hard work every day, and she credits her work ethic and drive to her parents. “I have also learned to continue working hard in my academics, because school is important to me and has taught me a lot”, she adds, “Gymnastics is the thing that makes me feel alive, and allows me to get away from my problems. My family has loved and supported me my whole life, and they always remind me to take everything one step at a time”. Auburn is going to be incredibly lucky to have this loving, caring, funny, and talented young lady…Hailey, you are going to bring so much light with you as you step into your future!
