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Seniors leave Michigan State's gymnastics program better than they found it

March 10, 2022
Photo by Olivia Hans | The State News

MSU Gymnastics has had quite the season between breaking the program record and being ranked No. 12 — but none of it would be possible without the 2022 graduating senior class.

“This group all offers so many things, especially the intangibles,” Michigan State Head Coach Mike Rowe said. “They're all extremely talented athletically and very smart academically. They each bring a different piece of the puzzle to the team, and we couldn't be more fortunate. Whether it's sense of humor ... or someone being the go-to person for someone having struggles outside of the gym. ... They're a great set of other resources that help us. ... They're like an extension of us.”

Seniors Sydney Ewing, Ashley Hofelich, Lea Mitchell, Alaina Raybon and Alyssa Wiedeman were celebrated Saturday night as they competed inside of Jenison Fieldhouse for the last time.

“Tonight is definitely bittersweet,” Mitchell said. “I'm excited to enter the next chapter, but it's sad leaving this team behind and the incredible community that we have here. Being able to see how the program has grown throughout the years is something I never would have imagined, and it's the best gift of all.”

This group of gymnasts serve as both friends and mentors to younger team members.

“I love all of the seniors,” sophomore Delanie Harkness said. “They have made a huge impact on this whole program, and honestly, we wouldn't be where we are without them.”

During the senior night ceremony following the conclusion of the meet, the team hugged and cried with one another. They were not ready to say goodbye to a place that meant so much to them over the years.

“This team is insanely close this year — the bonds we have, the culture and just the energy we all have — we love each other so much, and to have my team behind my back today was just so special,” Hofelich said. “The support we have for each and everyone of us is something we've never seen as a program, and it's going to be hard to leave, for sure.”

These five have conquered adversity like no other. They have overcome every challenge faced, and come out stronger.

“Our class has gone through all of it all four years,” Hofelich said. “From not getting the scores we wanted and then COVID, seasons being canceled. It's an amazing feeling to be able to come out for our last year and form an identity through all that adversity and come out on top.”

Although leaving MSU, the lessons and experiences they have had will stick with them forever.

“I plan to take resiliency, perseverance and hard work with me — I think I'll take that through life,” Mitchell said. “Gymnastics in itself has taught me a lot about hard work and dedication.”

Although the home season has come to an end, the season continues on. MSU is heading to University of Kentucky March 11.

“I'm happy that we still get to spend a couple meets (with our seniors) because they are such a crucial part of this program,” Rowe said. “They have been a big part of getting us to where we are, and getting everybody to understand how we are trying to transform the program.”

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