University of Minnesota Athletics
Gymnast Feature: Shannon Golich
2/21/2012 12:00:00 AM | Gymnastics
Feb. 21, 2012
Junior Shannon Golich is one out-of-state gymnast that was drawn to the University of Minnesota because of a list of things, but one part of Minnesota that caught her eye right away was how the gymnastics team feels more like a family. Now three years later, Golich has a second family, including her present and former Gopher gymnast, coaches and fans. The Aurora, Ill. native has excelled for Minnesota on vault, beam and floor since joining the team. GopherSports.com sat down with Shannon to get a little insight on what she thinks makes a successful gymnast, and what inspires her to perform her best.
What brought you to the University of Minnesota?
The number one thing I was looking for when deciding on schools was a close team. I wanted to find a team that really relied on one another, shared a close bond and trust, as well. The campus is what drew me in right away because it felt like home. Everyone was also so friendly when I came, so I knew it was a perfect match for me.
What is your favorite event, and why?
My favorite event is beam because everyone seems to have that stigma of not being good at it. I also love the competition on it and all the unique skills that you're about to do. Beam also allows you to be different than everyone else because each routine has its own sets. I just really like how it is a competition for me to get up there and overcome the obstacle of the beam itself.
What do you feel is a key to being successful in gymnastics?
I think being aggressive but patient at the same time is very important. I think this because if you rush everything and just going out there and doing things in a hurry, then you will never compete up to your expectations. So you need to relax, be patient and have confidence in yourself because if you believe in your abilities then you will do it. You are in control of your gymnastics, so it is all about going out there and doing what you know how to do.
What do you do to prepare for meets?
One thing I love to do is have pasta the night before. On the meet day, I always listen to pop or country music and dance around to get hyped up and in the mood. I also do my hair, makeup and glitter the same way every meet. The biggest thing though, is getting hyped up and loose before I compete.
How old were you when you started gymnastics, and what got you started?
I began when I was seven. I started out in dance, but I began to get bored with it. So my mom came up with the idea of gymnastics. She thought of this because at one of my friend's birthday parties, she saw me flipping around and having fun, so she signed me up for a gymnastics class. For the next year, I did both dance and gymnastics. After that, I had to choose one, and I chose gymnastics.
Who is a role model that you look up to?
I really look up to my parents because of how dedicated and committed they are to the family. When I see that in them, it makes me want to be more dedicated with what I am doing in my life. They have really been for me whenever I have needed anything. I feel they have led me in the right direction growing up, and they have helped me reach my full potential.
What goals do you have for yourself and for the team this season?
Well since I am coming back from an injury, a personal goal would be to come back as strong as possible on all three events. As a team, I really want to win the Big Ten Championship and qualify for Nationals. I think we all are in the right mindset right now, and we have our sights on accomplishing those goals.
What is a quote that you use to inspire yourself?
A quote that I really like is "Shoot for the stars". I like that quote because my mom and grandma always told me to shoot for the stars and be the best person I can be. So that is something I always keep in mind if I am feeling a little down.
What is your favorite part of being on the Gopher gymnastics team?
My favorite part is the bond that we all share. This is my family away from home, and my teammates are my sisters. We share everything together, and it is so nice to have someone there supporting you and pushing you on a daily basis. It's great to have a group of girls that is always there for you when needed.
