Harley

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

Harley loves the team environment, and challenging her mind and body to accomplish the tumbling, strength and endurance to compete in all the gymnastics events. She has loved flipping since a very young age but once she was diagnosed with epilepsy she was told the sport would increase seizure activity. She refused to let that hold her back. She has faced many set backs on this journey but the support from her teammates and coaches keep her pushing forward.

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

The person that inspires Harley the most is Simone Biles. Harley is very small for her age much like Simone. They have both faced numerous struggles throughout their lifetime. Just like Simone, Harley does not let size or hardships hold her back. She pushes through and gives it her best every day. Having a professional athlete like Simone has been a great inspiration to keep her spirits up and know that she can accomplish big things even when you’re small! “She is small, but mighty!”

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

Harley took a nasty fall in gymnastics where she was rushed to the ER with a fracture patella and torn LCL. She was in a locked hinge brace for 8 weeks and on crutches. She could have easily skipped gymnastics practice but she didn’t! She showed up to every practice to cheer on her teammates and work her upper body! Even throug the pain and disappointment of not being able to participate fully in the sport loves, she continued to show up, learn new skills and practice to the best of her ability.