Rooted in technique, growing into champions
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Representing Heidi’s Gymnastics – Philippians 4:13, Saniya Gaikwad was the all-around champion both days in a row for her division at the Junior Olympics in August. - Photo courtesy of Heidi Allen
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Saniya Gaikwad, performing here on the balance beam, emerged as one of several award-winners representing Heidi’s Gymnastics – Philippians 4:13 at the Junior Olympics in August. - Photo courtesy of Heidi Allen
Heidi Allen — formerly De La Rocha — has seen plenty of successful gymnasts through her years owning Heidi’s Gymnastics - Philippians 4:13.
In August, that success continued at the 2026 AAU Junior Olympics in Des Moines, Iowa, Tuesday, Aug. 4, through Friday, Aug. 7.
Allen’s gym sent eight gymnasts to the event. Incredibly, six advanced to event finals, which requires finishing in the top four for each event.
Ariyah Smith earned bronze all-around champion in her respective level as she also was a named All-American and won the vault title with a 9.9. Ultimately, she claimed the highest all-around score out of competitors in the bronze division.
In the silver division, Saniya Gaikwad was the all-around champion both days in a row. She earned two perfect 10s on uneven bars and posted two 9.9s on beam.
Moreover, she advanced to the finals in two events, “which is very difficult since you have to place in the top four on an event,” Allen said.
Autumn Mahoney was an all-around champion on her day, capturing the balance beam title, and Ayslyn McCreight was second all-around and won uneven bars and floor. She advanced to the bar finals with a 9.9.
“Consistency and beautiful technique really stood out in our athletes’ performances,” Allen said. “Technique is the foundation of gymnastics. It’s much like a tree — without strong roots, it can’t grow into all that it’s capable of becoming. You could really see the results of the girls’ technique training in the way they competed, and it showed in their success.
“Our athletes understand that we work as a team. I provide the coaching and guidance, and they bring determination, commitment, focus, respect and a coachable spirit that make that success possible.”
Abbi Jackson advanced to the balance beam finals as well, while Lexi Adoue advanced to the uneven bars finals.
Talia Smith and Lainey Robinette also earned the opportunity to compete at Junior Olympics, an achievement in itself as athletes had to finish in the top 10 at nationals to qualify.
“All our beautiful gymnasts represented themselves and Heidi’s so beautifuly in character and ability,” Allen said.
And while multiple representatives of Heidi’s Gym - Philippians 4:13 brought home trophies, the hardware did not tell the full story of the event.
“For me, it’s never just been about the trophy,” Allen summarized. “Trophies eventually get stored away, but what matters is what they represent — the work, dedication, and growth that went into earning them. Even when a gymnast doesn’t bring home a trophy, I still consider her a champion.
“A true champion understands hard work, has a coachable spirit, accepts critique with grace and humility, works to improve, supports teammates and keeps going even after disappointments. Those are life skills that matter far beyond gymnastics. It’s an incredible blessing to work with these girls and watch them develop these qualities.”
