Estelline/Hendricks made school history on Friday evening in Aberdeen by winning their first ever state gymnastics championship. The Redhawks had top scorers from one of their athletes in All-Around, Vault, Bars, and Floor during the team portion of the event.
“I had no idea what the scores were, so we just wanted to hit and do a good job and we just did that and had fun, so that was our state championship regardless,” explained Estelline/Hendricks head coach Sherri Johnson. “But to actually win, it’s just huge. I’m just flattered – speechless.”
As a team, Estelline/Hendricks finished with a score of 138.917. Chamberlain came in second with a total of 137.117, followed by Madison and Hot Springs, who tied for third with 136.817.
“Oh my word, just being able to bring this home to the Redhawks is just amazing. I can’t even express how proud we are to represent Estelline and Hendricks,” coach Johnson said. “I’ve been coaching gymnastics for so many years and this is the first state championship for me, and I’ve been at three different schools.”
Coach Johnson also made mention to those in attendance at Aberdeen Central on Friday night - those who made noise in support of her squad.
“We’re blessed to live in such amazing communities that support everybody and are so encouraging,” stated Johnson. “It means so much to have them be here and be vocal, and share in this. Because it’s our success, but it’s the Redhawks success.”
Not only is this the first state championship for Estelline, and their co-op with Hendricks, it’s also the first time that a school not named Madison or Deuel has won a state ‘A’ gymnastics team title since 1994 (Vermillion).
For complete results, action and award photos, and more from this year’s gymnastics event, click here.
