Calumet Gymnastics 2025 Season Recap: Strength, Resilience, and Rising Talent Define a Year of Transition
While the 2025 gymnastics season may have started with uncertainty for the Calumet High School team, it ended with undeniable success, grit, and a glimpse into a promising future. Under the leadership of Head Coach DeeAnna Gariepy, the co-op team—made up of gymnasts from Baraga, Calumet, Chassell, Houghton, Jeffers, Dollar Bay, and Lake Linden—navigated a season of limited numbers but exceptional performances.
With only two gymnasts on the roster this year, the team faced a unique challenge. Yet those two athletes, senior captain Nora Keranen and freshman Brooklyn Tatman, rose to the occasion and turned what could have been a rebuilding year into a season to remember.
A Duo That Carried the Banner
“Nora and Brooklyn both stepped up and excelled in all events and the all-around,” said Coach Gariepy. “Nora is a strong leader who paved the way for success and guided Brooklyn throughout the year.”
Despite the small roster, both athletes qualified for Regionals in every event and in the all-around—a rare feat for any team, let alone one comprised of just two members. Their efforts earned them recognition throughout the conference, culminating in standout performances at the Great Northern Conference Meet, where they both secured top-five all-around finishes.
At the GNC Meet:
Nora Keranen placed 1st on Beam, 2nd in the All-Around, 4th on Bars, and tied for 4th on Vault.
Brooklyn Tatman, in her first high school season, placed 4th in the All-Around, 3rd on Beam, 5th on Bars, and tied with Nora for 4th on Vault.
These results not only solidified their status as top competitors in the region but also showed the depth of their training, determination, and ability to rise to high-pressure moments.
Leadership and Growth in Action
Keranen, the team’s lone senior, did more than perform well. She set the standard for what it means to lead.
“Nora came in every day with leadership, positive energy, and a ‘push yourself to be your best’ attitude,” said Gariepy. “She was calm under pressure and was someone Brooklyn could really look up to. I could not have asked for a better senior.”
Her mentorship clearly made an impact. Tatman, just a freshman, progressed rapidly as the season advanced. Her willingness to add difficulty, raise her start values, and consistently improve her scores was noticed both by her coach and by judges across the region.
“Brooklyn grew all through the year,” Gariepy added. She upped her skills and improved her scores at every meet. She’s always looking for ways to improve.”
Facing Challenges with Composure
Though the team didn’t experience the usual depth or backup that comes with a larger roster, the mental preparation and culture Gariepy has built around the program carried them through any difficulties they faced.
“I prepare the girls during practice to handle pressure situations,” she explained. “It’s not just about wins or losses, but about how to overcome disappointment in performance and move forward.”
That mindset paid off, especially in tough meets where they faced strong competition. Their standout performances at the GNC Meet were particularly memorable. Both athletes went into the event knowing the field was stacked, but rather than being intimidated, they rose to the occasion.
“They surprised even themselves,” said Gariepy. “They went out there and had an incredible meet.”
Looking Ahead: The Future Is Bright
While Nora will be graduating, her legacy leaves the program in a strong place. Brooklyn Tatman will return next season with a year of experience, several medals, and an insatiable desire to improve.
“Brooklyn came so far this year,” said Gariepy. “I’m excited to see where she goes next year. She’s always looking to push for better skills and stronger routines.”
And help is on the way. Gariepy mentioned that several promising athletes are expected to join the team next year, bringing both numbers and competitive depth. With Brooklyn leading the next generation and incoming talent ready to contribute, the Calumet co-op gymnastics program is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory.
Offseason Goals: Rest, Recovery, and Readiness
While the season was short, gymnastics is a sport that demands year-round dedication. Gariepy encourages her athletes to keep active and engaged with the sport in the offseason to stay competitive.
“Gymnastics is a hard sport to quit for six months and expect to stay up with the competition,” she noted. “I’m hoping the girls can relax a little, have fun, and still train wherever they choose in the offseason.”
Whether it’s through local clubs, summer clinics, or open gym sessions, staying involved will be key to sustaining and building on the momentum established this year.
A Season to Celebrate
Although small in number, Calumet’s gymnastics team this year proved that quality can outweigh quantity. With leadership from a seasoned senior, the tenacity of a driven freshman, and the guidance of a coach committed to both performance and personal growth, the 2025 season became one marked by resilience, excellence, and promise.
As the gymnastics community looks forward to the next chapter, the Calumet co-op team can reflect proudly on a season where two athletes carried the weight of a program and made it shine brighter than ever.
Their story is a reminder that success isn’t always measured by the size of the team, but by the strength of the spirit within it.
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