New Milford High School Gymnastics 2025 Winter Season Recap: A Year of Excellence, Resilience, and Growth
The 2024–2025 gymnastics season at New Milford High School was a testament to dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. Under the careful guidance of Head Coach Bethany Mihaly, the team not only achieved a near-perfect regular season but also made deep postseason runs, capturing a league championship and qualifying several gymnasts for prestigious state and regional competitions. This year’s squad balanced youthful energy with experienced leadership, embodying the true spirit of competitive gymnastics.
Leading by Example: The Key Contributors
Two athletes stood out this season for their exceptional leadership and skill: Regan Williams and Haviland Brown. These two not only contributed impressive performances on the mat but also lifted their teammates through positive influence and work ethic.
Coach Mihaly praised their impact, saying, “Regan and Haviland led by example and were a very positive force in the gym.” Their presence was a steady anchor that helped maintain team morale and focus throughout the highs and lows of a demanding season.
Regan, especially, showed incredible resilience, competing the entire season despite suffering a shredded labrum in her shoulder. Her toughness inspired the entire team to rally and push through challenges together. She finished her senior season on her own terms, a true testament to her grit and determination.
An Undefeated Regular Season and League Championship
New Milford’s gymnasts entered the season with a strong mindset, and the results spoke volumes. The team completed the regular season undefeated, a remarkable achievement that underscored their discipline and talent.
The highlight of the season was undoubtedly winning the league championship, solidifying their position as one of the top gymnastics programs in their region. This success was not just about individual performances but about a cohesive team effort, where every member contributed to the collective goal.
The postseason only added to their accolades. The team placed fourth in States, a highly competitive meet that tested their skills and composure under pressure. Furthermore, New Milford qualified two gymnasts to the State Open and two to New Englands, marking a significant milestone and showcasing the caliber of athletes in the program.
Growth and Development: Rising Stars Step Up
A team’s future depends on the development of its younger members, and New Milford’s promising athletes rose to the occasion this season. Coach Mihaly highlighted the progress of gymnasts like Kyleigh O’Brien, Jamie Hendrix, Alyssa Campbell, Xenia Rivera, Maddye Rivera, and Kylie Morales.
“These athletes worked incredibly hard and improved their skills,” Coach Mihaly explained. “Many of them became better than they thought they could and were great about doing everything possible for the team.”
The improvements were visible in their routines and their confidence. This growth is essential not only for the team’s performance this year but also for sustaining success in seasons to come. Their dedication to practice, technique refinement, and support for their teammates helped raise the entire team’s level.
Overcoming Adversity: Strength in Unity
No season is without its challenges, and New Milford faced its share. Injuries and pressure situations tested the resolve of the athletes and coaches alike. Yet, the team’s response was a testament to their character.
Regan Williams’ injury was the most significant hurdle. Competing with a torn shoulder labrum required not only physical pain management but also mental toughness. The team’s support helped her persevere.
Coach Mihaly reflected on this resilience: “Regan competing through her injury inspired the whole team. It showed what hard work and determination look like, and the team rallied around her.”
Such moments of adversity often define a team’s spirit, and New Milford’s gymnasts showed that they were up to the challenge.
Senior Leadership: Guiding the Next Generation
The senior class played a crucial role beyond just their routines and scores. Seven seniors, including Regan and Haviland, brought experience, energy, and leadership that helped maintain a positive and focused environment.
“The seniors used their experience to help younger athletes enjoy the season and finish strong,” Coach Mihaly noted. “Their leadership ensured the team stayed connected and motivated throughout the long season.”
This combination of veteran leadership and youthful enthusiasm created a balanced team dynamic that contributed to both the success on the scoreboard and the growth of individual gymnasts.
Looking Forward: Promising Horizons
While the team will be saying goodbye to three strong graduating athletes, Coach Mihaly is optimistic about the future. The younger gymnasts have shown promise, and their eagerness to learn and grow suggests a bright path ahead.
“We’re very young, but the talent and ability of our returning athletes make me confident,” she said. “I know they will make me proud next year.”
This outlook reflects the program’s ongoing commitment to developing well-rounded gymnasts who not only excel in competition but also contribute positively to the team culture.
Offseason Focus: Strengthening Foundations
To continue building on their success, Coach Mihaly outlined clear offseason goals. The focus will be on strengthening and stretching, essential components for injury prevention and skill advancement in gymnastics.
“We want to improve overall conditioning to help athletes reach their full potential,” Coach Mihaly explained. “The offseason is crucial for addressing individual weaknesses and enhancing flexibility and power.”
This approach will prepare the team to meet the increasing demands of competition and aim for even greater achievements next season.
Where to Follow the Team
Although specific statistics for the season are not publicly available, Coach Mihaly keeps detailed records and is proud of the team’s accomplishments. For those interested in the program’s progress, New Milford’s gymnastics team can often be followed through school athletic channels and local sports coverage.
Conclusion: A Season of Triumph and Teamwork
The 2025 gymnastics season at New Milford High School was a celebration of team spirit, individual dedication, and collective achievement. With an undefeated regular season, a league championship, and strong postseason performances, the program solidified its reputation as a powerhouse.
Coach Bethany Mihaly’s leadership fostered an environment where gymnasts thrived, faced adversity head-on, and supported each other every step of the way. The blend of seasoned seniors and emerging young talent promises that the best is yet to come.
As the team looks ahead to the next season, the foundation of hard work, resilience, and positive energy will remain their guiding light. New Milford gymnastics is not just a team; it’s a family united by passion and perseverance, ready to reach new heights.
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