Lincoln-Way Girls Gymnastics Makes History with Podium Finish: A Season of Grit, Growth, and Greatness
The 2025 season will forever be etched in the history of the Lincoln-Way Co-op Girls Gymnastics program. Under the guidance of Head Coach Brooke Zych, the team not only lived up to its potential—they surpassed it, culminating in the program’s first-ever podium finish at state with a spectacular third-place showing. It was a season defined by passion, perseverance, and powerful leadership, both on and off the mats.
“This season was spectacular,” Coach Zych reflected. “The girls made every competition a learning experience and worked to gain each tenth they could. They had to learn how to be patient with themselves while trying their very best.”
Let’s take a look back at the moments, athletes, and milestones that made the 2025 Lincoln-Way gymnastics season one for the record books.
Star Power: The Standout Gymnasts Who Carried the Team
While gymnastics is ultimately a team sport, individual excellence helped power Lincoln-Way to new heights this year. Three athletes, in particular, stood out for their talent, toughness, and leadership.
Junior April Madison was a source of inspiration throughout the season. Battling through injury, Madison couldn’t compete in every meet, but when she did, she made her presence known—frequently landing on the podium in bars and ending her season competing in the bar finals at state.
Senior Rylee Miller, a four-year varsity athlete, embodied consistency and growth. As an all-arounder, she became a steady contributor and evolved into a confident team leader, her calm presence helping guide the team through high-stakes moments. Her composure and technical skill earned her a coveted spot in the uneven bar finals.
Then there was Senior Lainey Lekki, the “heart and soul” of the program. A four-year varsity member, Lekki didn’t just push herself—she pushed her teammates, constantly striving for improvement. Her leadership, drive, and dedication led her to a sixth-place finish in beam finals, helping to secure Lincoln-Way’s place on the state podium.
Building Momentum and Making History
According to Coach Zych, the turning point came midseason—when the full varsity squad was finally healthy and competing together. “They saw the magic I knew was there and realized it was possible to be a state contender,” she said.
The team took that realization and turned it into results, delivering standout performances week after week. Their steady improvement and team-first mindset carried them all the way to third place at the IHSA State Finals, marking the first time Lincoln-Way had ever reached the podium in girls gymnastics.
“While almost every girl had individual success, the biggest highlight was making school history,” Zych said proudly.
Growth Under Pressure: Emerging Leaders and Rising Stars
While the seniors led with experience, younger athletes rose to meet the challenge, growing into bigger roles and helping the team stay strong throughout the season.
Senior Lainey Lekki not only increased her difficulty across nearly every event but motivated teammates to elevate their own routines as well. Her impact extended beyond her own performances—she raised the bar for everyone.
Sophomore Jillian Riebe stepped into a larger varsity role this year, adding valuable points and proving she’s a gymnast to watch in the seasons ahead.
Junior Flynn Meyer made significant strides on vault, ultimately qualifying for the state finals with her improved routine—a testament to her hard work and determination.
Even while battling injury, April Madison remained a crucial motivator and contributor, showing exceptional mental toughness and support for her teammates. Her appearance in the bar finals, despite the pain, capped off a season of resilience.
Rounding out the leadership core, Senior Rylee Miller learned the art of patience and used it to perfect her bar routine, turning in “giant scores” that lifted the team’s total at key meets.
Overcoming Challenges with Unity and Grit
Injuries, pressure-packed competitions, and the emotional highs and lows of the sport could have easily derailed the team’s trajectory. But Coach Zych says it was their mindset that made the difference.
“These ladies saw every competition as a learning experience,” she shared. “While they may have been upset with themselves in the moment, they were quick to bounce back and figure out how to do better next time. They leaned on each other and kept their eye on the big goal—making it to state.”
That sense of team unity and shared purpose helped Lincoln-Way handle adversity with grace and confidence.
A Special Senior Class Leaves Its Legacy
Seniors Lainey Lekki and Rylee Miller brought more than scores to the table—they brought soul, spirit, and stability. Both athletes were instrumental in creating team chemistry, organizing bonding events such as pasta parties and blanket-making nights to bring teammates closer together.
“I looked to them to help keep our younger athletes focused but to also make memories,” said Zych. “Their passion made a lasting impression, and I am so very grateful to both of them.”
The leadership of these seniors helped lay the foundation for future success, ensuring the younger gymnasts understood what it meant to compete for Lincoln-Way.
Looking Ahead: Excitement for 2026 and Beyond
With several standout juniors and underclassmen returning, the future of the Lincoln-Way program looks bright. Coach Zych is especially excited to see the juniors step into more prominent leadership roles.
“They bring in goofiness with hard work,” she noted. “I’m looking forward to having a front-row seat to their best and final year competing for Lincoln-Way Gymnastics.”
Among those returning gymnasts, expect names like Flynn Meyer, April Madison, and Jillian Riebe to take on even greater responsibilities as both performers and mentors.
Offseason Goals: Unlocking Full Potential
As the team shifts into the offseason, the focus turns to development. Coach Zych hopes her gymnasts will push themselves to become well-rounded athletes and evolve into complete all-around competitors.
“I know many of them want to be viewed as bigger, better all-around gymnasts,” she said. “I hope to be able to get them there.”
This next phase will focus not just on refining routines and increasing difficulty, but also on building mental strength and self-belief—traits that defined the 2025 squad’s success.
The Legacy of the 2025 Team
More than medals and titles, this season was about breaking barriers, raising expectations, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. The 2025 Lincoln-Way Co-op Girls Gymnastics team didn’t just reach the podium—they changed the perception of what’s possible.
Coach Zych summed it up best:
“These athletes made school history. They believed in themselves, supported one another, and showed what happens when talent meets heart. I’ll never forget this season.”
And neither will anyone who witnessed it.
Note: For detailed meet results and athlete stats, visit your school’s athletics page or follow official IHSA updates.
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