Three Ambridge gymnasts are experiencing success after qualifying for spots in the state championships thanks to impressive performances.
Alyssa Fernandez, Paige Lehn and Elise Bracci are heading to the PA Classic Gymnastics Competition Friday and Saturday at Moon Area High School.
Alyssa Fernandez, Paige Lehn and Elise Bracci are heading to the PA Classic Gymnastics Competition Friday and Saturday at Moon Area High School.
 photo of Alyssa courtesy of Perfect 10 | Alyssa Fernandez, an Ambridge Area High School junior, took fourth place on floor in the Diamond Division, the highest level, at the WPIAL's on Saturday, Feb. 8. Paige Lehn, a senior, placed fourth on vault in the Bronze Division, and Elise Bracci, a sophomore, finished third on vault, sixth place on floor and fourth in the All-Around with a score of 35.1 all in the Gold Division. Elise will also defend the state title she earned last year on the floor. The girls will compete in the state championships as independent gymnasts for Ambridge because the district does not have a team. |
Elise's father, Jeff Bracci, is president of the Monaca Booster Club, where his daughter has trained since the age of 10. He said there are pros and cons to competing as individuals. As individuals, he said only one person from the school district can represent each level.
"Once you hit middle school, you have to decide if you want to compete," he said.
Elise and Alyssa are best friends who train at different places and compete on different levels.
Alyssa works out at Perfect 10 Gymnastics and is coached by Heather Yeck and Melissa Yeck. Heather Yeck said Alyssa has gained a lot of confidence this season and is starting to see her untapped potential. Alyssa is also a varsity cheerleader and has been cheering for 11 years.
"She has the ability to be a great gymnast. I'm very pleased with her progress this year, and we expect her to continue to make big gains in the off-season," Heather Yeck said.
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"Once you hit middle school, you have to decide if you want to compete," he said.
Elise and Alyssa are best friends who train at different places and compete on different levels.
Alyssa works out at Perfect 10 Gymnastics and is coached by Heather Yeck and Melissa Yeck. Heather Yeck said Alyssa has gained a lot of confidence this season and is starting to see her untapped potential. Alyssa is also a varsity cheerleader and has been cheering for 11 years.
"She has the ability to be a great gymnast. I'm very pleased with her progress this year, and we expect her to continue to make big gains in the off-season," Heather Yeck said.
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photo of Elise courtesy of Jeff Bracci
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