Rising Through Resilience: Lewis and Clark Gymnastics Overcomes Odds in 2025 Season
In the world of high school athletics, success isn’t always measured by trophies or standings—it’s often seen in quiet resilience, personal growth, and the bonds forged through adversity. For Coach Michele Kelly and the Lewis and Clark High School gymnastics team, the 2025 winter season was a testament to that very spirit. Despite facing early departures, unexpected injuries, and a small but youthful roster, the team exemplified determination, unity, and heart on and off the mat.
“It was a different season this year,” said Coach Kelly. “Over half the team quit within the first couple of weeks. But those who stayed—who showed up and gave their all—made this a season to remember.”
Standouts in Every Sense
While every gymnast contributed to the team’s journey, two athletes stood out for their impact, leadership, and growth.
Senior Gabriella Ontiveros was the heart and soul of the squad. “She is a phenomenal athlete and human,” Kelly said. “Gabriella showed up to every practice ready to give 100%. She competed well, led by example, and constantly encouraged her teammates.” A four-time state qualifier, Gabriella’s legacy is one of consistency, spirit, and quiet inspiration.
Then there’s Stephanie Walker, a true embodiment of courage and willingness. Having never competed on beam, touched a vault, or swung on bars before this season, Stephanie rose to the challenge and competed as an all-around gymnast. “She gave every bit of herself to grow and succeed,” Coach Kelly recalled. “She would try or do anything we asked of her. That kind of spirit is rare and deeply admirable.”
Freshman Emma Laselle, who qualified for state in 3 events. Emma is petite yet mighty. She brought a strong work ethic to the team. Emma is on the Xcel team at a local club. During the season, she went from our practice to Xcel practice and some days had dance practice as well. She got to learn how to balance it all, which was stressful at times for her. Life can be a balancing act, and when you are in different clubs or activities at the same time, you learn how to prioritize, what comes first, what you have control of, etc. learning this kind of adulting at 15 is part of the Growth as an athlete and person. Emma almost quit because she was not sure she could balance it all. With the support of her mom and long talks from me, we worked out a schedule to allow flexibility to help balance it without the emotional stress. And so thankful she stayed as she represented her team and school at state.
Also, Gaby maintained a 4.0 GPA all four years, taking honors and AP classes, and this past season had over a 4.0.
Macy Shapiro joined us as a freshman this year, bringing her kind spirit, powerhouse strength, and willingness to learn and grow through this spirit. She arrived at each practice with a determination to be better, stronger more flexible. She continually encouraged her teammates.
Hailey Ramsey joined us as a freshman a will with some previous Gymnastics experience. She truly learned comfort vs. challenge. We, as coaches, worked with Hailey on her emotional and inner personal voice and what it tells her. As a perfectionist, Hailey worked to overcome getting back up to do it 5 more times correctly, even if it’s not perfect. And what perseverance and performance mean vs perfection.
A Season of Challenge and Character
At first glance, the season’s numerical shortcomings—a small roster and early departures—might suggest struggle. But those who remained proved that strength isn’t always found in numbers. “We were small in numbers, but mighty in character, strength, personalities, and skills,” said Kelly.
The team, largely made up of younger athletes, embraced the grind of gymnastics: the rigorous conditioning, the mental and physical demands, and the repetition required to master new skills. “We had so much growth throughout the season,” Kelly noted. “Many improvements, many new skills learned and completed.”
Despite suffering injuries unrelated to gymnastics—setbacks that limited some athletes’ ability to practice or compete—the team adapted, persevered, and found meaning in every challenge.
Defining Moments and Milestone Achievements
The season wasn’t without its shining milestones. One of the most significant came when three gymnasts qualified for the state championship—an incredible feat for a team that had to rebuild from the ground up midseason. But for Coach Kelly, one of the proudest moments didn’t come from a routine or a scorecard—it came from the classroom.
The team was honored with the WIAA Highest GPA Academic Achievement Award at the 4A Gymnastics State Meet in Bellevue at Sammamish High School—awarded to the team with the highest GPA across the entire state. “That is huge,” Kelly emphasized. “To achieve that in a season like this—it speaks volumes about who these athletes are.”
Leaders Rising from Within
One of the most encouraging signs for the future was the emergence of freshman Gretchen Heinen as a vocal leader and team motivator. “She really sprouted her leadership skills,” said Kelly. “She encouraged her teammates and brought so much laughter to practice.”
In a sport known for its precision and pressure, the value of humor, positivity, and connection cannot be overstated. Gretchen’s impact reflects a promising foundation for years to come.
Meeting Adversity with Conversation and Courage
Gymnastics, perhaps more than many other sports, requires both physical and emotional fortitude. This season, Coach Kelly noticed her athletes struggling to set personal goals—afraid that falling short might define their efforts. Rather than push them toward unrealistic expectations, she leaned into the challenge with empathy.
“We had many conversations about fear of failure and how it affects us interpersonally,” Kelly explained. “We acknowledged the setbacks, talked through the losses, and used every moment as a teaching opportunity.”
Even with limited ability to train at full capacity due to injuries, the team maintained its composure in competitions and grew stronger with each meet. They didn’t just compete—they evolved.
The Impact of a Single Senior
As the only senior on the team, Gabriella Ontiveros carried a heavy mantle—but she wore it with grace. Having qualified for state all four years, Gabriella not only set the standard athletically, but also culturally. “She brought a kind spirit to our team,” Kelly shared, “along with humor, motivation, and inspiration.”
Gabriella’s influence is sure to ripple through the program in future seasons, serving as a beacon for underclassmen navigating their own gymnastics journeys.
Looking Ahead: Connection, Communication, and Growth
As she reflects on the year, Coach Kelly is already focused on the next steps—both technically and emotionally. “I’m excited to see these athletes grow as humans through this sport,” she said. “To watch them interact together, set goals, and see the bigger picture.”
Her emphasis for the offseason will be on developing stronger connections within the team, enhancing team unity, inclusion, and open communication. Plans are in the works for bonding days, intentional team-building activities that go beyond routines and conditioning.
This approach is central to Kelly’s coaching philosophy. “Gymnastics is more than a sport—it’s a vehicle for growth. It teaches life skills like resilience, focus, and support.”
Where to Follow the Team
While the gymnastics season may be over, you can continue to follow the Lewis and Clark gymnastics team’s journey through:
📊 GSL Website (Greater Spokane League Stats): https://www.gslathletics.com
📈 Individual stats and achievements are available through the team and Coach Kelly directly.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Lewis and Clark gymnastics season may not have started with a full roster, but it finished with a full heart. From emotional growth to state-level recognition, from uncertain beginnings to standout performances, the team turned every obstacle into an opportunity.
Coach Michele Kelly’s steady guidance, combined with the grit and grace of her athletes, laid a foundation that promises success far beyond medals. Whether on a balance beam or in life, these athletes have learned what it means to show up, lift each other, and chase excellence—even when the odds are stacked.
And if this season is any indication, the Lewis and Clark gymnastics team is just getting started.
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