Bronx Science Girls Gymnastics 2025 Season Recap: A Year of Growth, Grit, and Silver Success
As the 2025 winter sports season wraps up, one team at the Bronx High School of Science stood out not only for their success on the scoreboard but for the spirit and cohesion they displayed throughout the year. Under the leadership of Coach Vasso Konstantakakos, the Girls Gymnastics Team delivered an exceptional season filled with personal growth, rising stars, and team unity, culminating in a Silver Medal at the PSAL Girls Gymnastics City Championships.
From overcoming early hurdles on the balance beam to sending athletes to represent the PSAL at the New York State Championships, this was a season defined by resilience, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Leadership at the Core
Every great team begins with great leaders, and Coach Konstantakakos was quick to credit the steady hands and passionate voices of team captains Nora Cassetta and Lisa Nikitina for much of the squad’s success.
“Their leadership skills and ability to work together to bring both focus and high energy to practices and competitions were impeccable,” said Coach Konstantakakos. “They made sure every single person on the team felt comfortable and important.”
These senior captains set the tone from day one, modeling discipline and positivity while mentoring their younger teammates. Their efforts created an inclusive and motivating team culture that enabled gymnasts at all levels to thrive.
A New Generation Steps Up
The 2025 season marked a transitional period for the team, having lost some key athletes from the previous year. But instead of faltering, the Bronx Science gymnasts rose to the challenge, with returning veterans and promising newcomers alike stepping into major roles.
Junior Bethany Karlinsky and fellow junior Maria Savin were steady contributors across events. Maria Savin is also heading up to the captain role for next year. Sophomores Bea Hollweck and Lydia Xia brought consistency and poise, and the freshman duo of Cameron Villanueva and Madeleine Bell made an immediate impact.
The blend of seasoned performers and fearless newcomers proved to be a winning combination. Their collective efforts helped the team to one of its strongest finishes in recent history — second place in the city — and laid the foundation for future championship ambitions.
Highlights and Breakthroughs
The season had no shortage of high points, but one moment stood out above the rest: three Bronx Science gymnasts — senior Nora Cassetta, and freshmen Cameron Villanueva and Madeleine Bell — were selected to represent the PSAL at the New York State Championships in Buffalo, New York.
It was a milestone that symbolized the team’s depth and talent, as well as its bright future. Cassetta shone in her final meet, finishing with the top all-around total for the team, capping off a career that embodied leadership and excellence.
Another major highlight came in early January during a pivotal meet against neighboring Dewitt Clinton High School. The team had struggled on the balance beam during the early part of the season, but on January 9th, everything clicked. Each gymnast hit her routine with confidence and new skills, posting significantly improved scores.
“That meeting really boosted our confidence,” said Coach Konstantakakos. “It changed the mindset of the entire team for the rest of the season.”
It was a turning point that not only helped refine routines but also instilled belief — a belief that they could compete with the best and push for the podium.
A Star on the Rise
Among the many gymnasts who grew this season, Coach Konstantakakos highlighted Bethany Karlinsky for her exceptional development and leadership.
“Bethany put in so much work this season to get stronger and better overall,” said the coach. “She is fearless, hardworking, and determined to better herself and support her teammates.”
As a junior, Bethany is poised to take on a captain role next season, and her performance this year signals that she’s ready to lead both on and off the mat.
Senior Send-Off
While the future of Bronx Science gymnastics is undoubtedly bright, this year’s senior class leaves behind an invaluable legacy. Beyond their competitive contributions, seniors like Nora Cassetta and Lisa Nikitina led with joy and intention, ensuring that the program remained welcoming, inclusive, and driven.
“They really brought energy, positivity, and fun to our practices and competitions,” Coach Konstantakakos shared. “They made it a purpose to always have a positive attitude and worked hard on team building and unity.”
Their support for incoming freshmen and dedication to team bonding helped cultivate an environment where every gymnast felt valued. That culture will endure long after their graduation.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward to 2026, Coach Konstantakakos is energized by the direction the program is heading. With strong returning gymnasts, experienced leaders like Karlinsky, and more talented freshmen expected to join, the team is already setting its sights on an even bigger goal: capturing the PSAL City Championship.
“We are extremely excited about where the team is headed,” said Coach Konstantakakos. “We’re hoping that next year we can bring home our first city championship!”
While no offseason plans were detailed, one can assume that with a driven group and a coach who emphasizes preparation and team chemistry, the Bronx Science girls will be working hard to sharpen routines and polish techniques in the months ahead.
Track the Journey
For those interested in following the Bronx High School of Science Girls Gymnastics team, stats and updates can be found at psal.org. Simply search for the school and select the Girls Gymnastics team to explore match results, standings, and individual performances.
Conclusion
The 2025 season for Bronx Science Girls Gymnastics was about more than medals. It was about overcoming challenges, building confidence, growing into leadership roles, and laying the groundwork for sustained success.
Thanks to a dynamic mix of senior guidance and youthful energy, the team not only rebounded from key departures but they excelled. With silver medals in hand and gold in their sights, the Bronx Science gymnasts are ready to elevate their program to new heights.
As Coach Vasso Konstantakakos looks to the future, the message is clear: the best is yet to come.
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