By Art Simas Community Reporter
Shrewsbury – Shewsbury High School senior Jessica Mushinsky is one of only 21 female gymnasts to be named to the Massachusetts All Star Select Gymnastics Team that will travel to Ft. Myers, Fla., in May for a national competition that will showcase the best of the best.
“I really don's know how it happened,” she said. “Every meet I just went out and tried to do my best. I guess that's how you make it there.”
She also listened to her coach, Bill Martin, who always seemed to have a calming effect on the athlete.
“He just told us to relax and do what you do. That little encouragement really goes a long way.”
She says the balance beam and the floor exercises are her favorite events. Mushinsky broke school records for best scores on the balance beam in her freshman and sophomore years.
Mushinsky has been involved in gymnastics since she was 3, ever since her mother warned her that she's hurt herself by tumbling off couches and falling on the floor.
She plans to go to Rhode Island College and continue her gymnastics career at the Division 3 level.
“It's far enough but also close enough if I want to come home and visit anytime.”
She also will likely pursue a business management degree.
“I's like to own my own business because I like being the boss.”
