University of Minnesota Athletics

Wgym at denver
Photo by: Emily Howell-Forbes

All-Around with Maddie Quarles

1/29/2020 10:30:00 AM | Gymnastics

Maddie Quarles has had a flawless transition since joining the team this year. Not only has the team been able to help her transition, but she also has former club teammate, Abbie Nylin, by her side through it all. Quarles quite literally hit the ground running, scoring a career-high 9.900 on vault in her first collegiate meet after not competing for two years. 

Gopher Sports: How has the team helped with your adjustment to a new school and program?
Maddie Quarles: Right away from the start of being on this team, every single person on this team has helped me transition not only into the team but also into the whole school. My teammates would help me with anything, whether that was where a building was or what time we had something. There was not one person that wasn't willing to help out. Also, doing homework with girls on the team has also been a huge bonus and help for learning the ropes here at a new school. 

GS: What does it mean to you to be competing for your home state?
MQ: Competing for Minnesota has meant the absolute world to me. Knowing that I have my family close and that they are cheering me on throughout everything has been a complete blessing. Coming back home and competing for this incredible team has never felt more amazing. 

GS: How have you improved as a gymnast since coming to Minnesota?
MQ: First off, not have I only improved as a gymnast, but I have actually been able to do gymnastics. Having the support of my teammates, coaches and athletic medicine staff has helped me to reach my goal to compete in a college meet. I would have never thought that competing would be so fun. 

GS:  What are you most looking forward to this season?
MQ: I am most looking forward to traveling to each meet and competing with this amazing team. Last year I was unable to get to do that, so getting the opportunity this year is the best part.

GS:What is your favorite event to compete on?
MQ: My favorite events to compete on are both Vault and Floor. Vault is the main event I am competing in this year, but floor is also one of my favorites. Getting to show off the big skills and flips that everyone likes to watch has to be my favorite part.
 
GS: What is your pre-meet routine? Do you have any superstitions?
MQ: The only pre-meet routine that I have is listening to music before the meet, and just dancing and keeping my mind off the meet until it's go time. I try to stay as happy and positive as possible.

GS:  What has been your favorite part about being on this team?
MQ: My favorite part about being on this team is doing things with the other girls on this team. Whether that's watching the bachelor, going to get food or going on an adventure, hanging out with my teammates has been a huge positive with this team. 

GS:  What do you like to do outside of gymnastics?
MQ: Outside of the gym, I love to ride horses and spend time with both my parents and my dog. I also love going on adventures during the summer and making memories that will last forever.
 
Quick Hits
Favorite Food: Sushi 
Favorite Superhero: Thor or Captain America
Dream Vacation: New Zealand or Iceland 
Go-to Ice cream flavor and toppings: Cookies and Cream, or Vanilla with Oreo topping 
Dream Car: Tesla
Best Pizza Topping: Pineapple
 
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