I still remember landing my dismount and saluting the judges — it wasn’t perfect, but I couldn’t stop smiling. That moment reminded me why I love this sport.
My path to college gymnastics wasn’t like most other athletes.
When I entered high school, I was elated to be just a few years away from competing at the next level.
I was excited to start looking into and learning more about colleges throughout the country.
Then, when I was a sophomore, everything changed.
I had to get surgery on both of my arms, which put me on the sidelines for almost two years.
At that time, I felt like I was falling behind.
My club teammates were starting to commit to colleges, and I hadn’t even been cleared by my surgeon to do a cartwheel yet.
I had to remind myself that my journey was unique, and everything would work out in the end.
One of the first programs to reach out to me was Michigan State.
They were always watching me and keeping up with my progress.
When I was healthy and ready to compete again, I went on a visit to MSU.
I loved it.
I connected instantly with the team, the coaches, and the energy of the program.
It was everything I could’ve ever wanted, and when they offered me a scholarship, I didn’t hesitate to accept it.
All of the adversity I faced was worth it when I finally signed my letter of intent to become a Spartan.
Freshman Year Success
My freshman season was more fun than I could’ve ever imagined. We won the Big Ten Championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament. Not only did I get to contribute to the team's success, but I also got to perform my bar routine several times throughout the season!
This past season, as a sophomore, we qualified for nationals, which was another incredible experience. I feel grateful to have been part of that team, and I’m proud of what we accomplished.
One of the craziest parts about college gymnastics is that the team changes every year. You spend almost every day with your teammates, and they become like family.
It’s hard to watch the seniors leave, but the new freshmen also bring energy and excitement to the team.
I’m lucky to be a part of such a special program.
The culture here at MSU is like no other, and I’m just trying to do my best to carry on the legacy of the gymnasts who came before me.
A Defining Moment
This past season, I competed on bars and performed a skill I’ve had since I was 13 or 14 years old.
It was an extra skill I worked on in practice, but I never put it into a routine.
With the help of my coaches, I finally included it, and I got to compete it for the first time.
At the beginning of the year, it was a little shaky, but as the season went on, I really started to get more comfortable with it.
I worked with my coaches to see what I could improve on, and I loved the challenge of changing things up and seeing what worked best for me.
I’m a very goal-oriented person and love trying new things, so it was a rewarding experience to try something new and succeed at it.
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work with such amazing coaches and teammates who push me to be my best.
Balancing Life as a Nursing Major
Outside of the gym, I’m a nursing major, and it’s always fun to see people’s reactions when I tell them that.
They’re always amazed that I can balance the student-athlete and nursing student life.
I just take it one day, one week, and one semester at a time.
Helping people has always been a passion of mine, and I love the idea of being able to make a difference in someone’s life.
When I went through my surgeries, I saw firsthand how impactful nurses can be.
They were there for me during my recovery process, and I’m forever grateful for their support.
I also thought about coaching because I know how impactful my coaches have been in my life.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
I love helping people, and I want to be there for someone who needs it, just like my coaches and nurses have been there for me.
Whatever path I choose, I know it will be something that allows me to make a difference in someone’s life.
I’m excited to see where my journey takes me.
The Next Chapter
My gymnastics journey has been a little crazy, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.
Every chapter of my life has had someone there to help me and push me along the way.
I wouldn’t be the person I am today without each individual part of my journey.
There were times when I wasn’t sure if I was on the right path, but looking back now, everything has fallen into place like it was meant to.
I’m so thankful for every moment and every relationship I’ve built along the way.
I have two more years of college gymnastics, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish as a team.
I’m looking forward to creating more memories and growing as a person and athlete.
It’s been an incredible ride so far, and I’m ready for whatever comes next.
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📷 Kendall Abney and Michigan State Athletics
