Erica Driscoll
Westmont
How did you get involved in gymnastics?
I started in one of the toddler classes at my local gym when I was about 3.
What do you love most about the sport?
It always feels like there's something new. It never gets repetitive.
Which event is your favorite?
My favorite to practice is probably floor and my favorite to compete in is probably floor or bars. I like that (floor) is a lot of power tumbling.
How have you improved since your freshman year?
Definitely with confidence. I think a lot of my floor routines, I was a lot more timid, especially the vault, too. With my team, as I've gotten to know people over the years, I've gotten a lot more happy in the sport.
What is your goal for the season?
I'm hoping to go to sectionals as a team. That would be amazing. Personally, I'm hoping to qualify for all-around, to compete at all four events at sectionals.
What example do you try to set for underclassmen?
Definitely cheering people on. Especially coming from club, where it's more individual-based, high school gymnastics is more team focused. Getting out of that individual mentality and supporting your teammates is a big thing. Also being consistent, showing up on time, doing your assignments and not cutting corners with conditioning.
What are your plans for next year?
I'm hoping to study animal science at University of Wyoming or U of I or University of Georgia. I'd like to look into club gymnastics if the school has a club team.
Would you advise other girls to join the team?
It is a really great program. Even though a lot of club gymnasts come in with a mindset that high school is where you lose your skills, I feel like it's a really great opportunity a lot of girls don't consider fully.
Why does coach Kim Estoque like having Driscoll on the team?
Erica has been our top all-arounder for the last couple of years. She is a hard worker and works to get better in the off-season as well as in season. She leads by example and is a great team player in an individual sport.
- profile by Pamela Lannom, photo by Jim Slonoff
