What does it take to be an elite gymnast like Maggie O’Hara? It goes back to as early as fifth grade, when she was routinely putting in 20 hours a week at the gym. Flash forward to today, when this All-American Arkansas gymnast is finishing her final season, nearly 13 years later. Maggie provides insight into the intense world of college gymnastics and the physical and mental demands that come with the sport- including developing  a relationship with fear. Maggie began her collegiate career at the University of  Michigan, where she competed in two NCAA national championships, won three big ten titles and four regular season titles as a beam and bars specialist. Despite the team's success, her experience at Michigan did not come without challenges. After rupturing her achilles tendon and severely injuring her ankle, Maggie questioned whether she would ever return to gymnastics. She never gave up on herself, and ended up transferring to the University of Arkansas to continue her eligibility and pursue a Masters in Kinesiology. Arkansas was a breath of fresh air. Coached by former Olympians Jordan Weiver and Kyla Ross, the Arkansas program believes in prioritizing the overall wellbeing of each individual on the team over all else. Maggie discusses the new era of gymnastics culture, one that gives athletes a voice, and how the sport still has a long way to go.

After gymnastics, Maggie will be attending Occupational Therapy school. At a young age, she was inspired by the OT and PT professionals that helped her sister manage her health issues. Thanks to their work, Maggie’s sister has outlived what doctors had predicted and lives a relatively normal life today. Maggie hopes to have the same impact on others one day. I am confident she will.