Westport Weston Family YMCA Gymnastics Team Triumphs at Connecticut State Championships
WESTPORT, CT – March 29, 2024 – The Westport Weston Family YMCA Gymnastics Team soared to victory at the recent YMCA State Championships held at the Wilton YMCA. Competing against teams from Wilton, Darien, Rye, Glastonbury, Lakewood-Trumbull, and Meriden, The Westport Weston Family YMCA’s our gymnasts showcased exceptional skill and determination, securing numerous individual awards in addition to the team’s outstanding performance.
“The team’s accomplishments this past weekend are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our gymnasts,” said Byron Knox, head coach of the Westport Weston Family YMCA Gymnastics Team. “Their commitment to excellence and passion for the sport have truly paid off. All of the hard work came to fruition Sunday, and this is just the beginning as we look forward to increasing our growth.”
In addition to the impressive individual achievements, the Level 7 and Level 8 teams secured the first-place titles in their respective categories further highlighting the team’s depth and talent.
The Level 7 team, comprised of Emilia Fletcher, Kate Sunderland, Ava Leykikh, Samantha Sargeant, Hannah O’Brien, Caitlin Eckert, and Maya Szypulski, displayed outstanding performances across all events, securing their well-deserved victory. Similarly, the Level 8 team, consisting of Hannah Bitsky, Victoria Zhou, Maya Sebastian, Manar Abis, Laura Rosas, Mia Cochran, and Kaity Dominick, delivered stellar routines that impressed judges and spectators alike.
The Level 2, Level 3, Level 4, and Level 5 teams also delivered stellar performances, securing second place overall, with the Level 6 team achieving a commendable fourth place. The overall team results speak volumes about the Westport Weston Family YMCA Gymnastics Team’s talent and cohesion. A special mention for Ava Leykikh from level 7 for her mesmerizing floor routine that earned her a perfect score and well-deserved gold medal!
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS:
Level 2
- Junior A Division: Alex Saltzman (All-Around), Annabel Schaap (Beam)
- Junior B Division: Cara Liff (Beam), Lily Oppenheim (Floor)
Level 3
- Senior Division: Amy Epstein (All-Around, Beam, Floor – Tie), Alexa Dombrow (Floor – Tie)
Level 4
- Senior Division: Trista Ready (Vault, All-Around)
Level 5
- Senior Division: Natalie Musco (All-Around, Beam), Manuela Rozo (Vault), Eva Astolfi (Bars)
- Junior Division: Guinevere Prapopulos (Vault)
Level 7
- Junior Division: Emilia Fletcher (Beam), Ava Leykikh (Floor) – With a Perfect Score!
Level 8
- Junior Division: Maya Sebastian (Vault)
- Senior Division: Hannah Bitsky (Vault, Bars, Beam, All-Around)
Looking ahead, the team is gearing up for the upcoming regionals scheduled for May 17-19 in Plaistow, NH, where gymnasts from levels 3-8 will showcase their skills on a broader stage. Following regionals, the pinnacle event of the season, nationals, will take place from June 20-24 in Oaks, PA, offering our gymnasts the opportunity to compete at a national level.
For aspiring gymnasts looking to join this winning program, the next season officially kicks off in September. However, summer practices provide an excellent opportunity to get a head start and immerse oneself in the world of competitive gymnastics.
To learn more about the Westport Weston Family YMCA Gymnastics Team and upcoming events, please visit westporty.org/gymnastics or contact Megan Willett, Gymnastics Program Manager at 203-226-8981 Ext.132 or mwillett@westporty.org.
For additional WWFY program information, visit westporty.org/programs.
About Westport Weston Family YMCA
The Westport Weston Family YMCA is a cause-driven non-profit organization whose 100-year history is steeped in dedication and compassion for those we serve and beyond. We come together from every walk of life to strengthen our community in the name of healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. The Y is centered on helping people feel healthier, happier, and more connected. We work to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race, or sexual orientation has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. Together, for a better us. Learn more at westporty.org.