Thoughts from Katie Lukas, World Elite Gymnastics
A week after the Olympics has ended I am still watching clips of the events, thinking how magical the 2024 cycle was. The redemption tour for Simone Biles and the Women’s Gymnastics Team, Men’s Team Gymnastics Bronze Medal finish, Women’s Rugby in the spotlight, Noah Lyles, Katie Ledecky, Sha’Carri Richardson, Mens and Womens Basketball, and Stephen Nederosik are just a FEW examples of greatness shown at the Olympic Games.While I try and watch as many sports as possible during The Games, my true love in the Olympic world will always be gymnastics.
My love for the Olympics started in 1996 when the United States Women’s Gymnastics Team won their first gold medal in Atlanta. As a 9-year-old gymnast, I didn’t yet appreciate or understand the significance of the moment, I just knew something amazing happened. 7 Olympics later I feel the same pride and excitement watching these athletes train and compete for the taste of gold!
This year brought to light the importance of determination, perseverance, sportsmanship and prioritizing individual health and well-being. The world watched as Simone stepped away from the team competition in 2020, only to return stronger and more determined in 2024. Suni Lee battled through a kidney disease to make her way back to the Olympic Team. Jade Carey earned her Bronze medal in the individual vault competition after misstepping during the event finals in Tokyo, missing the podium finish.
What better message can we send to young, aspiring athletes, that no matter what happens, the struggles and setbacks that they are experiencing, CAN be overcome to reach their goals. Youth Sports teach valuable life skills like teamwork, discipline, and goal-setting, preparing athletes for success in all areas of life.
The future of gymnastics is bright! More and more we are seeing athletes redefine success and focus on personal growth and well-being. Allowing more athletes to have the opportunity to compete longer in the sport.
As the average age of an Olympic gymnast is on the rise, it opens the door for alternate paths to elite gymnastics. The intersection of college gymnastics has significantly influenced the Olympic games. College Gymnastics empowers gymnasts to build personal brands, increasing their visibility and attracting more fans to the sport. The growing number of college gymnasts on Olympic teams strengthens the connection between these two levels of competition.
Whether you have a lifelong love for the Olympics or are a casual observer. There is no denying the positive impact the 2024 games left on the minds of young athletes.
“Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communiter” or in English, “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together”
