Last Friday the Farmington United Gymnastics defeated Livonia Red 138.95 to 118.70. The team
improved to 4-0.
The team was led by junior Elena Vargo who scored a season high all-around score of 37.65. Kacey
Noseworthy also had her season high all-around score of 36.75. Both of these gymnasts have high level
routines that can score, Elena averaged a 9.4 on each event, while Kacey averaged a 9.2. To have such
high scoring gymnasts is a blessing. They will be needed as two big invitationals approach in Milford on
January 26 and at Canton on February 2. These Invites typically draw the top teams in the state. After
those meets we will have better idea as to where we stand.
In addition to these solid all-arounders, the team has plenty of depth. Freshman Kamini Playle had a
very solid meet. She had high eights on 3 events. Bars is her toughest event, but if she continues to
work at it she can become a very accomplished gymnast. The tough gymnasts always work on their
weakest event. That is what separates the good from the very good. Shelby Smith and Ava Farquhar
continue to add significant depth to the team. They were an integral part of last year’s state
championship team and they know what it takes to accomplish such a difficult task. I never have to
worry about them as I know they both bring it every day in practice and at meets. Allison Schultz is
hitting on all cylinders lately. I spoke to her about this the other day at practice. She needs to continue
to push herself harder and she will see some significant strides this season. Sydney Schultz is coming
back from a foot injury. She too has the ability to shine as the season progresses.
Captain Olivia Deming suffered a season ending injury tearing her left ACL on a dismount on beam.
Her competitive spirit is what made her a captain this year. Olivia tore her right ACL at this time last
year and worked incredibly hard to compete again this season. It was such a devastating injury,
especially after her comeback. I have never seen a team so affected by someone else’s injury- there
were so many tears that it took some time to regroup and finish the meet. I told her recently that I had
no doubt that she would again rebound and continue to be a positive force. She has the heart and soul
that not all are blessed with – for that reason she will continue to be successful.
The team will host Canton on Friday , January 18 at the Farmington Gymnastics Center at 6:30 pm.