Berlin’s own Isabel Stassi ‘26 is headed to Turkey to represent Team USA in the Junior World Gymnastics Championships. The competition will be held from March 29 through April 2. 

   This is the second time that a junior world competition will be held for artistic gymnasts and the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. Stassi is one of three gymnasts who will represent Team USA. 

   “It was a goal I set for myself as soon as they announced they were taking a team,” said Stassi. 

   Stassi qualified for the team at the world’s selection camp held in Katy Texas earlier this month. She will join teammates Jayla Hang and Hezly Rivera.

   This will be the first time she has competed in an international competition since she qualified for junior elite at the age of 12 and was selected to be a part of the U.S. national team last year.  

   “The experience has been amazing! Some of my best friends are all around the country because we attend so many camps throughout the year. I am so grateful for USA Gymnastics and their support,”  Stassi said. 

   Stassi is thrilled to compete on the world stage and represent Team USA. She is excited to meet new people and gain experience. 

   “To be in the top three of the country is incredible to know my hard work has paid off,” Stassi said. 

   Stassi has her eyes set on big goals after the world competition as well. She hopes to gain more experience, especially in regard to international competition. 

   Stassi will enter the senior elite field of competition next year and has started to set her eyes on the Olympics. 

   She hopes to qualify for the Olympic trials that will be held on June 27 through 30 next year and then plans to train for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after that. 

   After that I will train for the 2028 Olympics,” Stassi said.

   You can check USA Gymnastics’ social media pages or website in order to learn how to view the competition as more information is released. Make sure to tune in and wish Stassi good luck as she represents the United States at the Junior World Championships.