Alabama Gymnastics Introduces Four-Member Fall Signing Class
11/13/2017 3:08:00 PM | Gymnastics
The Crimson Tide signed gymnasts Asia DeWalt, Emily Gaskins, Griffin James and Shallon Olsen in the fall period
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama head gymnastics coach Dana Duckworth announced the Crimson Tide's fall signing class of Asia DeWalt, Emily Gaskins, Griffin James and Shallon Olsen on Monday.
"We are excited that these four young ladies have made the choice to attend The University of Alabama, not only as an Alabama gymnast but to strive academically and become extraordinary human beings during their collegiate career," Duckworth said. "Each one of these women bring a different strength to our program from skill level, competitive experience, mental mindsets and personality. What makes me proud when I read their quotes on why they chose Alabama is a consistency across the board that they felt at home, could see the family environment, they had connection with the coaching staff and that our program is about setting a standard of excellence in all areas of their lives. We are thrilled as a staff to have the opportunity to coach and mentor these young ladies."
A former Junior International Elite competitor, Asia DeWalt is coached by Debbie Kaitschuck and Deana Parish at AIM Athletics. A 2017 Level 10 Texas State silver medalist on the uneven bars, she also finished sixth in the all-around at that same meet. In 2016, she was second on the vault, third on the uneven bars and fourth in the all-around at the Level 10 Texas State Championships. She was also third on the vault and seventh in the all-around at the 2016 Level 10 Region 3 Championships.
"As soon as I stepped onto the campus I was greeted with a sense of family and support which is very important to me in a university and a gymnastics program," DeWalt said. "I was also impressed by the school's overall sense of pride in its tradition and continued drive for excellence in academics, athletics and personal development."
The Spring, Texas, native is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. A senior at Texas Connections Academy, DeWalt is a four-year honor student. She is the daughter of Ruth and August DeWalt.
A three-time member of the United States' national team, Emily 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.
A five-year Junior Olympic National Championship qualifier, Griffin James is coached by Nic and Amanda Tolley at Gymstrada Gymnastics. She is a three-time member of the Region 7 All-Star team and a five-time Virginia state champion. She was fourth on the vault and eighth on the floor exercise at the 2017 J.O. National Championships.
"From my first visit I felt like I was part of the Alabama family," James said. "Everyone is always welcoming and the bond that the team shares is incredible. I cannot wait to be part of this family and carry on the legacy of greatness"
The Virginia Beach, Va., native is a member of the National Honor Society and the Math Honor Society. A senior at First Colonial High School, she carries a 4.0 cumulative grade point average. She is the daughter of Anne and Phillip James.
A 2016 Canadian Olympian, who finished eighth on the vault in Rio, Shallon Olsen also finished seventh on the vault and 16th on the floor exercise at the 2017 World Championships. She is coached by Vladimir Lashin and Svetlana Lasina at Omega Gymnastics. A member of the Canadian national team since 2010, she earned gold on the vault at the 2016 Pacific Rim Championships, leading Team Canada to the silver medal. She also earned a silver medal on the floor exercise and a bronze on the vault at the 2014 Pacific Rim Championships while leading Canada to team silver.
"I chose Alabama because of the warmth and caring of all the coaches, Olsen said. "Also because of the high standards that Alabama sets and how hard the gymnasts work to reach their goals. I got the sense that Alabama is a great school, the best."
The Vancouver, British Columbia, native is a member of the honor roll at Centennial Secondary School, where she is a senior. She is the daughter of Jayne Chow-Olsen and Tony Olsen.
While the Tide's latest additions to its gymnastics family get their 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.
