deal 2Lizzie Deal could get used to calling Columbus her “second home” for the next few years, as the Troy sophomore gymnast will be gearing up soon for what has become a norm for the Troy High School gymnastics team…success.

Deal and her teammates are coming off of a season last year where the Trojans placed sixth overall in the state meet, meaning the bar has been set for Deal and the Trojans again this winter.

“My goals for this upcoming season is to mainly get back to state,” Deal said. “We have new freshman coming up, so hopefully they can help us. Many teammates of mine are working out during the summer getting stronger on all the events, so this will help our team.” 

As a freshman, Deal enjoyed her trip to the state meet, but not only for the successes that she had in the gym, but also the spent with her team away from the competition.

“A few highlights of my high school gymnastics would be going to state with my team and getting 6th,” she said. “It was so fun going to Columbus with my team getting pumped on the way there.”

“Also, another highlight was when we all went out for a team breakfast at Bob Evans before a meet. It was awesome being with the team. We all could relax, crack jokes, and be crazy before our meet.”

For Deal, the competition never stops as not only is she a key member of the Trojans, but her club season gives her the chance to compete and improve her skills.

“For me, gymnastics never ends,” she said. “I compete for Gem City Gymnastics, so I do club gymnastics and high school gymnastics. In the summer, I just work out and try to get harder, cleaner skills and routines.

“Then towards November/December, high school starts, so I focus on putting all the skills together in my routine.” 

deal 1“I used to play soccer, but I recently had to quit because gymnastics was taking over my schedule. I started gymnastics when I was 5. My mom started me in gymnastics because she was a cheerleader and always wanted to tumble. Also, she started me in gymnastics for brain development.”

She knows that all of the hard work will pay off, and she will continue to improve with regular training.

“I am working most on getting harder skills in my routine. Also, I am working on cleaning up the skills I already have, so they are nice, neat, and easy. Plus I am trying to get stronger mentally and physically.”

After high school, Deal stated she would love to compete in college gymnastics.

“It has always been a dream of mine since I was little,” she said. Deal also stated she is interested in studying dietetics, and would like to become a registered dietitian.