In this season for the varsity gymnastics team, there are many important returning seniors, such as FHC’s Olivia Jeong and Hannah Walters. With their experience from competing in years before, the 2019-2020 season for the girls is looking bright. Last year, the team placed 13th in states, and they are looking to make it there again.

“I think that we have some amazing seniors who are leading by example and have proven to be extremely driven,” new head coach Lauren Suzio said. “In addition, we are extremely fortunate to have several new gymnasts who are working hard to progress and work together as a team.”

The team is a mix of gymnasts from FHC, FHN, and FHE. Girls from each grade have come together to form this great team that has done well in previous years. This year, some of the girls are competing in new events and stepping out of their comfort zones, but they are motivated and ready to compete this season. They want to finish with a good season record and to go as far as they can in states.

“I would love for our team to qualify for states again this year,” said Joelie Havey, who is a senior at FHC. “It is my first and last year on the team, so that would be an awesome achievement for the seniors to end on.”

One of the more difficult rivals of the season would be the team at Rockford, who has always had a good team that the girls have to prepare hard for. This season, they feel ready and want to compete as their team is looking strong.

“My goal for this season is to beat Rockford and to go to states,” Hannah said.

The girls are excited for this season and the meets to come, and they are looking forward to competing under their new head coach Suzio.

“My expectations include our girls putting forth full effort to advance their skills throughout the season,” Suzio said. “While I would love for us to make it to the state championship, my main goal is to consistently progress, regardless of where that lands us.”