The Liberty Gymnastics team is heading into the season with high expectations, strong team chemistry, and a packed schedule filled with tough competition. With returning athletes and focused preparation, the team is ready to make an impact.
Team leaders say one of their biggest strengths this year is how connected the group already feels before the season even begins.
“I’m definitely most excited for the team this year. We are all pretty familiar with each other already and are looking forward to a great season,” said captain Lindey Van Zwieten ‘27.
Along with excitement, the pressure to perform at a high level is also on the athletes’ minds, especially with conference success on the line.
“I’m probably most nervous for maintaining our OCC streak,” Van Zwieten added.
This season, the team is also putting a major emphasis on unity and working together as a whole.
“We’re definitely focusing more on team bonding this year and functioning more as a team rather than individuals,” she said.
For Captain Hanna Macklis ‘27, this season represents a chance to showcase years of hard work and improvement.
“This season I’m really excited to show all the progress I’ve made and finally put everything together in competition,” Macklis said. “I’ve been working hard, so I can’t wait to be out on the floor with my team and see it all pay off.”
Even with confidence in her skills, Macklis admits consistency under pressure remains a challenge.
“I’m a little nervous about staying consistent under pressure because even though I know I can do my skills, meet-day nerves can hit hard,” she said.
This year, she is changing her approach to focus more on both physical and mental strength.
“I’m focusing more on strength, refining the little details, and working on my mental preparation so I feel calm and ready for every routine,” Macklis said.
The team’s season begins in December and runs through early March with multiple meets across central Ohio, including major matchups against Hilliard Bradley, Olentangy schools, and Worthington Kilbourne.