Girls’ gymnastics overcomes key setbacks

Thomas Hurley Sports Editor

In a season filled with ups and downs, the girls’ gymnastics team has found ways to be successful, and build a strong chemistry in the process.

The varsity team’s primary triumph came at the Niles North Invite, where they took home first place. The JV team had similar success, winning meets at New Trier and Niles West.

In addition to impressive results throughout the season, the team has been able to maintain a consistently positive outlook.

“Being able to have fun at meets has led to our success this season,” junior Madelyn Rutherford shared.

Coach Heidi Bowbin has particularly appreciated the team’s positivity through the season.

“Through it all, we have stayed positive, motivated, and supported one another in and out of the gym,” Ms. Bowbin said.

“No matter what happens—if we are having a bad day; attitudes are down—we always find a way to bring each other up and end with a good meet,” junior Eleni Gritsonis said.

Gritsonis suffered a devastating leg injury 14 months ago, but her commitment to the recovery process has allowed her to make a return this season.

At the Jan. 12 meet vs. Evanston, she competed for the first time since the injury, performing a routine on the balance beam. Her team considers her recovery a highlight of the season.

“It was very exciting and emotional for everyone, as she has been working so hard to come back in some capacity,” Bowbin said. “We are all so truly proud of her and excited for her all at the same time.”

Not only did Gritsonis finally get a chance to compete, she placed first in her competition.

“Overcoming an injury as a gymnast is very difficult due to the extreme stress the sport puts on your body,” Rutherford said. “She worked so hard to be able to compete again. Her determination is admirable.”

Freshman Katie Saviski has also played a key role on the team this season.

“She is on the varsity team as a freshman,” Coach Bowbin said. “[Saviski is] an extremely beneficial addition to our varsity lineup.”

Saviski is not the only young member of the varsity squad, however. Many of the gymnasts are juniors who will be able to build on experience from this year.

“Being a young varsity team gives us a great head start on the next season,” Rutherford said.

Heading into their Regional match on Jan. 30 (results not available at press time), the team was confident

“Our main goal is and always will be to have fun,” Beyer said. “It’s super important that you’re enjoying the sport you’re playing. If you aren’t having fun, you aren’t really playing the game.” in their skills.

“We are getting better at perfecting our routines and getting harder skills,” Gritsonis said.

Mental fortitude has also been important for the gymnasts.

“In gymnastics you need both strong physical strength and mental strength,” Rutherford said. “Being able to get up after a fall and compete in the next event in the midst of holding back tears is definitely not an easy task.”

As the season draws to a close, the team will have to time to reflect on the year as a whole. For the gymnasts returning next winter, they will look to emulate the strong team bond forged during this season.

“The girls work together and truly want to see each and every teammate succeed,” Bowbin said. “They truly want the best for each other, and when one falls, everyone is there to pick them up.”