By Kris Leonhardt

STEVENS POINT –Local high school gymnast, Abbigail “Abby” Mitchell officially committed to the UW-La Crosse and its gymnastics program, during a Nov. 12 signing ceremony held at Russell Gymnastics in Stevens Point.

Mitchell is a Level 10 gymnast from Russell Gymnastics and a senior at Marshfield High School.

“I am so glad I have found my dream school that will allow me to continue my gymnastics career and take my passion for the sport to the next level. This will be my third year competing Level 10 and I take pride in my work ethic and perseverance,” Mitchell said.

“I always try my best to be coachable and positive. I believe a positive attitude is essential to succeed as a gymnast. As well as my own success in the gym, I love seeing the success of my teammates. We are family and I could not have done this without them.

“I am fortunate that my high school has been supportive of my gymnastics career and has allowed me to participate in blended education, which has helped me focus on both my gymnastics and academic career equally. These virtual classes have allowed me to work independently at a fast pace, strengthening my time management and self-motivation skills, and preparing me for undergraduate coursework.”

Mitchell said that the quality of the UW-La Crosse gymnastics program attracted her to the college.

“Another reason I chose UWL is because of their successful history not only in their gymnastics but all of their athletic teams. They have earned 71 national championships. The gymnastics team alone has won 24 conference championships and 17 national titles,” she said.

“One of my goals has always been to be a part of a national championship team and I look forward to achieving that goal with this team and coaching staff.

“I knew when I walked on campus, into the gym, and met Coach Kasey Crawford this is where I belong.”