Although junior Jaci Bauman does a number of different activities, gymnastics is at the top of her list when it comes to favorites.

“I started when I was three because I would always do somersaults and cartwheels and stuff in my house when I was little, so my mom signed me up for gymnastics and I loved it,” Bauman said.

Not only does Bauman have to keep up with gymnastics and continue to improve, but she is also in her junior year of high school and is in the process of looking at colleges. In addition to this, she plays softball during the fall.

“I do [gymnastics] five days a week, and then occasionally we will have meets on the weekends. Practices are two hours or two-and-a-half hours, depending on the day.”

“I already have a very busy schedule, but I will always find the time for gymnastics.”

There are currently 14 people on the team, however only a few have participated in gymnastics as long as Bauman has. Her coach and fellow team members all agree that she is very dedicated to the sport.

“Jaci is one of the hardest working girls on the team. When she sets her mind on something new she will not stop until she has mastered it,” gymnastics coach Amber Dorholt said. “It is an honor to have her on the team and I am proud to be her coach.”

Not only is Bauman a truly dedicated team member, but according to senior team member Christine Ellis, “Jaci is the most awesome person ever. Practicing with her is so much fun and she just lights up the entire gym.”