Rylee Cumpston '29 Recruiting Profile

My primary goal in college gymnastics is to continue challenging myself and growing as an athlete, while contributing to a team that values dedication and camaraderie. I aspire to keep learning and to improve my skills and help the team succeed in any way I can. Beyond gymnastics, I am focused on pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner, combining my passion for healthcare with my desire to support and uplift others.

I am highly dedicated, resilient, and adaptable. My background in gymnastics is shaped by perseverance—I've overcome significant obstacles, including a severe health setback. In May 2024, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, which led to a week in the PICU, severe weight loss, loss of all of my strength, and loss of all of my gymnastics skills. I didn’t know if I was going to be able to return to gymnastics. I ended up having to start from the beginning and relearning basic movements and techniques, but through sheer determination, I not only regained my strength and skills but also came back to compete at Level 7, defying everyone’s expectations. Through my experience with diabetes and relearning gymnastics, I also came to realize just how vital supportive coaches are to an athlete's growth and recovery.

I have also moved frequently due to my parents being active duty military, I've trained at multiple gyms and worked with different coaches, which has given me a broad perspective on the sport and helped me develop versatility and an open mindset. I bring a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and team-first mentality to every practice and competition, always cheering on my teammates and encouraging a supportive atmosphere.

What sets me apart is my resilience, adaptability, and mental toughness. I’ve faced significant challenges—both personal and athletic—but have always persevered and come back stronger. My experience moving around due to my military background has also taught me how to quickly adapt to new environments and connect with people from different backgrounds, which I believe is important for any team. Academically, I am dedicated to my studies and focused on pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner working in the fields of either endocrinology, orthopedics, dermatology, or anesthesiology. My passion for healthcare drives me to approach every challenge with commitment and compassion, qualities I will bring to both my athletic and academic endeavors.