Emily Gaskins Signs NLI with Alabama Gymnastics
11/11/2017 2:29:00 PM | Gymnastics
The Florida native is the fourth gymnast to sign with the Crimson Tide in the fall period
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Florida native Emily Gaskins has signed a National Letter of Intent to compete for The University of Alabama gymnastics team head coach Dana Duckworth announced Saturday.
"We are thrilled Emily chose The University of Alabama for her collegiate career," Duckworth said. "Emily is an extraordinary gymnast with amazing power and grit as well a unique style of elegance that has been the signature to her elite and international gymnastics career. When she talks about gymnastics it is evident she loves the sport. Her future desire is to be a coach to make an impact on others. Over the last three years we have watched Emily mature in every area of her life and we are honored to continue that growth in character, academic success and her passion for the sport."
A three-time member of the United States' national team, Gaskins competes for Mary Lee Tracy at the Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy. She also earned a place at the 2017 USA World Team Selection Camp. The Region 5 Athlete of the Year, she has competed for Team USA in Mexico and Italy, leading the U.S. to team gold each time.
"When I first visited Alabama I felt an instant connection and knew that this was the place for me," Gaskins said. "I also knew that the team and coaches would always support me and would push me to be my best and reach my goals. I admire how much respect the gymnastics team has and how all the athletes support each other."
The Coral Springs, Fla., native is a senior at Florida Virtual School. She is the daughter of Kimberly and Ronald Gaskins.
"Emily's desire for success has been evident in the huge sacrifice she made in moving away from her family to train with legendary coach Mary Lee Tracy for the opportunity to maximize her Elite career," Duckworth said. "Mary Lee has had a huge impact on her mental toughness and gymnastics technique which has translated into competing big skills. Emily's commitment to excellence, family, team and becoming a champion in life fits our Alabama culture and her grace, power and personality will be exciting for our fans to watch."
Gaskins joins Shallon Olsen, Asia DeWalt and Griffin James in the Crimson Tide's 2019 freshman class.
While the Tide's latest addition to its gymnastics family gets her start with the 2019 season, this year's squad gets things underway in January. Season tickets are available through the Alabama Ticket Office (205.348.2262) located in the lobby of Coleman Coliseum or online at RollTide.com.
For all the latest information on Alabama gymnastics, follow BamaGymnastics on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook and head coach Dana Duckworth on Twitter and Instagram at @UACoachDana.
