Daniella

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

Being a gymnast makes me feel like I have superpowers. Although it might look easy, I am constantly challenged and facing my fears. But, I know that when I put my mind to it I can conquer anything like; flying through the air while performing a Yurchenko over the vault, swinging high above the ground while doing a giant on the high bar, trusting myself to land a walkover back handspring on a 4-inch beam, or using all of my power and strength to propel my body through a twisting flight skill.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

I am inspired by great gymnasts, like Simone Biles, Morgan Hurd, and Kerri Strug, who have also faced severe injuries and yet returned to triumph at the highest level of gymnastics. During my own injury and rehabilitation, the quote "the comeback is greater than the setback" fueled my determination. This daily affirmation and most importantly my faith, is what gives me strength and grace to persevere in the toughest moments and to return to the sport that I love.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

Dani was diagnosed with an Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesion of her left elbow which required extensive surgery by specialized surgeons at Boston Children’s hospital. This meant she would need 10 months of rehabilitation and miss her 2025 competitive season. For an 11-year-old gymnast who was used to spending 20+ hrs/wk in the gym this was life shattering. Yet, her unwavering determination and resilience to return to her sport turned this defining moment into a testament of inner strength.