Kayla Johnson is Sophomore at Foran, and her journey in the world of gymnastics started at a young age. As a toddler, she took her first steps into the gymnastics community at “My Gym” and continued to develop her skills at Cartwheels from the tender age of four. In 2020, facing a transition when Cartwheels closed, Johnson seamlessly moved to GCA (Gymnastics and Cheerleading Academy), where she has continued to evolve and grow as a gymnast.
Johnson’s heart lies in the exhilarating world of gymnastics bars. Since her early years, the uneven bars have captivated her, and to this day, it remains her favorite event. Her performances on the bars showcase not only technical prowess but a genuine passion for the discipline.
One of Johnson’s standout moments was achieving success at the Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC’s) last season, marking her journey with a memorable placement and earning the prestigious title of All-State as a freshman. Notably, she secured the 13 position on bars at the state opens, adding to her impressive track record.
In the lead-up to a competition, Johnson adopts a focused and strategic approach. She scales back her routines, concentrating on refining specific skills that need attention. Mentally, she embraces a calm mindset, minimizing stress and worry, allowing her to perform at her best when it matters most.
Johnson has faced her fair share of challenges, primarily in the form of injuries. From sprained ankles to back and knee issues, she tackled these setbacks with resilience. Through physical therapy and a gradual return to training, she overcame these obstacles, showcasing both physical and mental strength.
Johnson draws inspiration from her team and coaches, with a special acknowledgment to her captain, senior Sadie Cella. Their unwavering support and encouragement resonate with Johnson in every aspect of her gymnastics journey. The camaraderie among her teammates serves as a constant pillar of strength.
The gymnastics head coach, Dina Sklanka has been coaching Johnson for 2 years now and is impressed with the hard work she puts forward every day.
Sklanka can always count on Johnson to stick to her routine when they need her the most. Sklanka states, “She always has a positive attitude and shows excellent sportsmanship. Kayla is always encouraging her teammates to do their best.”
Looking ahead, Johnson has her sights set on repeating her All-State success and continually improving. She aspires to elevate the difficulty in her routines and aims to compete at the highest level for her club, showcasing her dedication to constant growth.
For those aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Johnson offers sage advice – ¨set small, reachable goals to experience success and, most importantly, remember to have fun. In the pursuit of excellence, joy remains a fundamental aspect of the gymnastics journey.¨
