With exceptional performances on the bars, beam, and floor, no one can contest that McLean gymnastics’ victory on Monday, Dec. 2 wasn’t well deserved. The win was encouraging for a team looking to outdo their states-level season last year.

“The win definitely boosted our spirits and made us feel good about our chances this year,” senior Addie Gevinson said. “We have been putting in lots of work and are hoping to move on to states for the second year in a row.”

It’s a long road to states for these athletes. They must first compete in a long regular season, but these matches can show how the Highlanders compare to other teams and predict their performance in more important competitions. During meets, six gymnasts will compete in each event for McLean, and the top four scores from each event will be added up to get the team’s total score.

“[Regular season] meets are a great way to figure out how we’re going to do against other teams,” Gevinson said. “If we do well, it usually means that we will do well at districts and regionals.”

After weeks of competing in regular season meets, the Highlanders must advance through districts and regionals to qualify for states. If they don’t make it as a team, gymnasts can still attend regionals individually. However, the team’s strong bond makes them want to share their victories together.

“Hopefully, we’ll win districts and regionals as a team and move on to states like last year,” senior Skylar Thomas said. “I want to make the best of my senior year competing with my teammates and friends.”