Gymnasts filled the McWhorter Center the past few days, learning new skills and hoping to be the next Auburn champion.
The five-day gymnastic camp was hosted by Auburn University coaches and players June 15-19 and 22-26.
“The college girls are role models to them,” Associate head coach Rachelle Thompson said. “It’s who they watch and keep up with on TV and online, and then to actually work with them is very exciting.”
Campers ranged from level four beginners (ages 6 or 7) to level 10 girls (ages 16 and 17).
The college gymnasts talk to the campers to give them advice and encouragement.
Instruction is centered on the balance beam, bars, vault and floor exercises.
First-time camper Alyssa McGee, 9, from Clanton, was proud of the back walkover she achieved during the camp as a level four gymnast.
“I learned a double back, double pike and a whip,” said Montana Pritchard, 10, of Biloxi, Miss.
When a participant learned a new skill, they had an opportunity to showcase it while everyone else stopped and watched.
“My favorite part is seeing their faces when they get something or just
their excitement about being here in general,” said A.J. Mills, a
senior in marketing and communications. “When you are around college
students all the time, you forget that’s where you came from.”
