Talk about a perfect landing.
Last week, five local high school stars took part in the National High School Gymnastics Association Senior Invitational in Fort Myers, Fla.
Maggie Murphy and Leah Spinney of Westford Academy, Riley Salerno of Central Catholic, Alli Ganley of Wilmington and Charlotte Woodbury of the Littleton/Acton-Boxboro/Groton-Dunstable/North Middlesex co-op team, led Team Massachusetts to a championship with a score of 151.825, which easily outdistanced runner-up Illinois (149.215). Nine states competed.
Murphy finished second in the all-around competition, scoring a 38.200, winning the vault (9.8), taking second on floor (9.70) and third on the balance beam (9.575).
“Winning vault and getting second on floor and all-around felt like such an accomplishment in my high school career,” said Murphy. “To be able to end on such a good note, now leaving with such
memorable memories with the whole team and coaches, everyone was so supportive. It felt like family as we got to know and become closer with one another.”
Spinney had a terrific performance, finishing sixth on bars (9.3) and tying for 11th on floor (9.250).
“It was an amazing experience. I got the opportunity to compete one last time as a high school athlete along side some of the best high school gymnasts in Massachusetts,” she said. “It was also a great opportunity to meet and compete with other senior gymnasts from all over the country. As a team we were able to really come together and enjoyed getting to know each other better during our time in Florida.”
Spinney said she will always cherish this experience.
“Coming home as senior national champions was such an accomplishment,” said Spinney, who will attend Springfield College in the fall and compete in gymnastics. “We have all worked so hard throughout our gymnastics careers and this was a great way to end our senior season.”
Murphy, who will attend the University of Maryland, said competing with Spinney one last time was the perfect way to end her high school career.
“Leah was awesome. Being able to have a close friend and teammate there with me and being able to cheer each other on and supporting one another (was special). I was so proud of her and can’t wait to see her grow and do great things at Springfield,” said Murphy.
Ganley finished fifth in the all-around (37.275), finishing fourth on bars (9.375) and 13th on floor (9.175). Salerno was fifth on floor (9.60), eighth on beam (9.050) and 11th on vault (9.3).
