Viking’s Rising Stars athletes attended their first meet of the season on February 19th. Boys and Girls Levels C1, 1, and 2 athletes had the opportunity to showcase the routines they’ve been working on all season to their family and friends, getting to take home trophies for their accomplishments as well! 

In addition to this being their first meet of the current season, it was the first one they’ve attended since March of 2020. Coach April Sawyer says of the event, “For many of them, this was their very first experience in being part of a team, learning skills and performing them, becoming friends with others that love gymnastics, and of course receiving recognition for their hard work with applause, a high five and a trophy to take home.” Putting on a performance in front of an audience can be nerve-wracking, but the Rising Stars handled it like champs and surprised themselves in completing their routines, with immense support from their friends, family, teammates, and coaches!

This year Viking’s Rising Stars Special Olympics program gained thirteen new athletes, making a total of twenty-nine, and allowing Viking to expand from one weekly practice to two. In expanding the program, Viking is able to help more athletes with special needs learn what it means to be part of a team, as well as improve motor skills, memorization, spatial awareness, and encourage socialization. Coach April adds, “We are so proud of each and every one of our athletes and we want them to love the sport of gymnastics, not only because the activity is so great for them, but because now they are all important members of a team that is supported by Viking Gymnastics who thinks they are amazing.”

All in all, it was a great start to their competitive season!