GlenOak Golden Eagles gymnastics soars to new heights
CANTON, Ohio — The GlenOak Golden Eagles gymnastics team has had a standout season, marked by teamwork, dedication, and individual excellence. Led by head coaches Alyssa West and Erika Atkinson, the team has balanced the intensity of individual competition with the camaraderie of a collective effort, proving that their strength lies in both skill and support.
GlenOak’s gymnastics program emphasizes more than just athletic excellence. While gymnasts compete individually in events such as floor exercise, balance beam, vault, and uneven bars, the Golden Eagles foster a culture of encouragement, resilience, and shared success. At each meet, six athletes compete per event, with the team score comprising the top four performances. This structure reinforces the importance of consistency and teamwork.
This season, the Golden Eagles are guided by a strong senior leadership group: Anna Ruhman, Leah Burlingame, Isabella Sedmock, Anna McClure, Aanika Sommers, and Maria Morgan. Their leadership extends beyond competition—offering guidance, encouragement, and setting the tone for hard work and perseverance.
Before each meet, the team rallies together with their signature chant, “GlenOak GlenOak hey!”—a tradition that fuels their energy and unites them as they step onto the competition floor. The team also celebrates success in a unique way, passing around a crown to the top-performing athlete after each event, a symbol of their collective triumph and support for one another.
The Golden Eagles have had an impressive competitive season, securing a victory over Massillon and earning second-place finishes at both the Eagle and Polar Bear Invitational meets. Their determination and hard work have paid off, with multiple athletes qualifying for the upcoming District Meet at Hudson High School on Saturday, February 22. Those gymnasts include Brooklyn Maurer, Sophia Krosse, Olivia Wiles, Anna Ruhman, Leah Burlingame, Isabella Sedmock, Aanika Sommers, and Anna Senften—all with the opportunity to advance to the State Meet.
Several athletes have delivered outstanding performances throughout the season, posting some of the highest scores for the team:
Vault: Brooklyn Maurer (8.85), Aanika Sommers (8.1), Anna Senften (7.85)
Bars: Brooklyn Maurer (8.6), Isabella Sedmock (7.6), Sophia Krosse (7.45)
Beam: Brooklyn Maurer (9.25), Isabella Sedmock (8.9), Sophia Krosse (8.1)
Floor: Brooklyn Maurer (9.25), Isabella Sedmock (9.0), Aanika Sommers (7.85)
As the season progresses, the team remains motivated by their shared goals and unwavering support for one another. Each gymnast continues to push themselves, inspired by the dedication of their teammates and coaches. The GlenOak Golden Eagles have already achieved remarkable success, and with the District Meet approaching, they are ready to showcase their hard work on an even bigger stage.
Coaches West and Atkinson couldn’t be prouder of their team’s commitment and resilience. “We are very proud of their continued hard work and dedication and excited to see them excel,” they shared. With their strong foundation of teamwork, skill, and determination, the Golden Eagles are ready to soar even higher.
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