As a gymnast, I began my journey at the age of two. In my small town, everyone knew me as the girl who left school early for gymnastics, the one with dreams of going D1. My identity was so intertwined with the sport that I couldn’t imagine myself without it. However, life had a different plan for me, and it took me on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing to find who I was beyond the sport I love.
A Change Of Plans
At just 17, I left my small town and moved across the country to join Clemson’s inaugural gymnastics team. It was a daunting experience, but I was determined to make it work. However, things didn’t go as planned. I faced challenges I wasn’t prepared for, from the pressures of being away from home to dealing with injuries and mental health struggles. The weight of expectations, both internal and external, began to take a toll on me.
I found myself in a dark place, questioning my worth and purpose. It was during this difficult period that I realized I needed to find my identity beyond gymnastics. I couldn’t let my performance in the sport define my entire existence.
Taking A Stand
With the support of my teammates, I began fighting for change. We united and took a stand against the toxic coaching environment that was affecting our mental and physical well-being. It was a powerful moment of empowerment and self-advocacy. We fought for ourselves and got the results we deserved.
As we welcomed new coaches who genuinely cared about us as individuals, I started to rediscover my love for gymnastics. I was determined to make this year my year, to compete and enjoy the sport I had dedicated my life to. But once again, life had other plans. During the preseason, I suffered a severe ankle injury. It was another setback, another reminder that my worth wasn’t tied to my ability to perform. With the help of my coaches and the entire team at Clemson, I began to find my worth outside of gymnastics.
I discovered new passions and hobbies that brought me joy and fulfillment. I started embracing my authenticity and using my platform to inspire others. I found my voice in advocating for mental health and self-acceptance.
Lessons Learned
Through this journey, I’ve learned that my worth isn’t determined by the opinions of others or my achievements in the sport. I’ve learned to find validation within myself and to focus on what truly matters. My message to fellow athletes is to enjoy the journey and be present in the moment.
Gymnastics is just a chapter in our lives, and it’s important not to let it consume our entire identity. By finding our worth outside of the sport and embracing our true selves, we can overcome any obstacles that come our way.
I’m grateful for the challenges I’ve faced because they’ve shaped me into the person I am today. I’m excited to continue my journey, both in and out of the gym, and to inspire others to do the same.
