Q: Do you have a nickname?
A: My friends call me Missy.
Q: When and why did you first become interested in gymnastics?
A: When I was younger my mom noticed that I had good awareness, so my uncle suggested putting me in gymnastics.
Q: When did you decide you wanted to compete? And, when did you want to compete on the elite level? What about competition appeals to you?
A: At first, I didn’t like competing but once I started going to meets and performing in front of people I decided that I liked it and kept with it.
Q: What is your favorite event?
A: I love floor, and I think it’s a great that you can show your personality and express yourself.
Q: What is your favorite skill?
A: My favorite skill a double Arabian. I think it’s a fun skill, and it’s very rewarding when you make it.
Q: Who is your favorite gymnast or who is your “idol”?
A: I always looked up to Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson, and I’ve also been inspired by McKayla Maroney because her gymnastics is very light and enjoyable to watch.
Q: How have you grown as a gymnast during your career, both skill wise and mentally?
A: I learned a lot about myself, and every year, I have improved in my gymnastics. I understand what I need to do every year to get better technique and consistency.
Q: How has gymnastics helped you as a person?
A: Gymnastics teaches discipline and time management.
Q: If you had to select one life-lesson that gymnastics has taught you, what would it be?
A: If you want something, you have to work for it.
Q: What are your biggest accomplishments or best memories in your career?
A: My biggest accomplishment was winning floor at nationals, I qualified for the Region 7 All-star Team, and we went to Scotland. That was my best memory
Q: What grade are you in school, and where do you go to school?
A: Senior at Brick High School
Q: Do you want to compete in collegiate gymnastics?
A: I’ve committed to the University of Utah. It is a very seasoned program and the coaches care. It just felt like home.
Q: What are your favorite subjects, etc.?
A: I like science.
Q: What are your goals for the future, both as an athlete and after you are finished competing?
A: This year my goal is to win Junior Olympic Nationals. In college, I would love to win an NCAA Championship team title. After college, I want to have a steady career.
Q: When you’re not in the gym, how do you enjoy spending your time? Do you have any hobbies or favorite activities?
A: I like to hang out with my friends and go to the beach.
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: I like chicken or pineapple.
Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: The Lion King.
Q: What is your favorite music group?
A: The Lumineers
Q: Are any of your family members current or former athletes?
A: My sister does club soccer in college, and my brothers played soccer.
Q: What’s on your iPod right now? What type of music do enjoy listening to? How about before a meet when you’re trying to get focused and pumped up?
A: I listen to Jimmy Eat World every time before I compete. My dad played it before every meet, even when I was a Level 4, so I kept doing it.
Q: If you had to pick 3 words to describe yourself as a gymnast, what are they?
A: Artistic, aggressive and calm.
Q: What 3 words describe you as a person, not the gymnast?
A: Outgoing, fun, and happy. I used to be an international elite, but I felt like it was too much pressure and I wanted to enjoy my gymnastics more.