Sophia Rivera '25 Recruiting Profile

Hi! I am Sophia Rivera and I am currently a junior at Park Ridge High School attaining a 3.5 GPA. I had a successful level 9 season in 2022 and I am competing level 10 this 2024 season. I started gymnastics when I was 4 years old and my love for the sport has continued to grow ever since. Gymnastics has introduced me to a network of hardworking gymnasts, coaches, teammates, and opened doors to meeting many other individuals that have aided me along the way of my journey. It has taught me respect, teamwork, time management, communication skills, and grace.

I keep a good balance between having fun and working hard in everything that I do. I set weekly goals to keep myself on track, always keep a positive attitude, and look forward to improving myself at practice everyday. I exhibit these same qualities throughout my outside life and at school. I take pride in my grades, and highly value leadership and involvement in my community and gym. I am seen as a role model at my gym as the highest-level gymnast and a pre-team coach. Knowing that I have people that look up to me reminds me of the examples that I should set for others which in turn, improves my work ethic and positive mindset. 

My most meaningful accomplishment would have to be taking on a leadership role as a team captain for a pediatric cancer campaign in October of 2022 called, “Handstand Walk for Kids”. I attended monthly zoom meetings to brainstorm ideas on how to raise awareness and funds. I am proud to say that my gym and I raised over $21,000. Over several months of discussions and research I learned about the daily routines and struggles of children and families affected by pediatric cancer. I joined this organization because I found it to be such a creative way to raise awareness and educate others about pediatric cancer through the beautiful sport of gymnastics. 

Collegiate gymnastics has always been a dream of mine not only to continue the sport after high school, but to be a part of something greater and show others how hard I have worked to get where I am today. Geographically, I am open to any school and any size; however, I am mainly interested in division 1 or 2. I am hoping to compete in beam, bars, and possibly floor as a freshman. Having the opportunity to improve throughout college would bring me so much joy and serve as a reminder to myself that if I put my mind to anything I can achieve it. I am excited for you to join me this upcoming season and follow along on my recruitment journey!