Charlotte French
Clarendon Hills
senior
How long have you been a gymnast?
Since I was 3, so about 15 years
What do you enjoy about the sport?
I just feel like not everyone has the ability to do the crazy skills that I can do and my teammates can do. I feel like I was put here to do that sport.
How you improved since freshman year?
I first joined the high school team from club gymnastics, and I was used to being upset with myself if I didn't do as well as I wanted in a meet. Over the last few years I've focused a lot more on the team aspect and having fun with everyone. Now I never go home from a meet feeling upset.
What's your strongest event?
I would say my strongest event score-wise is bars, and I went to state last year in bars. But my favorite event is floor because my routine has a lot of difficulty.
What's your goal in your final season?
This year I'm a lot more focused on myself and what I want to accomplish by the end of this year, as it will be my last year doing gymnastics.
How would your teammates describe you?
I would say hardworking, motivating, compassionate about my teammates and about the sport. I try and mentor the younger team members and show what it means to put in the work.
How's the new gymnastics gym at Central?
It's really nice, and it kind of puts everyone in the zone because everything's all in one spot and we can see everyone on all the events.
Who inspires you?
I would say Simone Biles, just everything she's gone through as a gymnast of color and making it as far as she has in the sport, that's really inspiring.
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
I want to become a psychiatrist helping military veterans and their families with their mental health.
Why does coach Kim Estoque like having French on the squad?
Charlotte is a pleasure to work with. She is a leader, hard working and very caring person. She shows great sportsmanship for her fellow teammates as well as others from other teams.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
