My Biography
At just 12 years old, Paisley Schafman is a gymnast who combines grace, agility, and power, already making a mark in the world of competitive gymnastics. Starting her gymnastics journey at the tender age of 5 and beginning competitive gymnastics in 2020, Paisley has shown a natural aptitude and unwavering commitment to her sport.
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Paisley's favorite events, the beam and floor, showcase her precision and artistic expression. Her exceptional talent on the beam was recognized at the last regional championship where she achieved a perfect 10, setting a record at Gold Medal Gymnastics as the first Xcel Gold gymnast to do so. This achievement also contributed to her taking first place all-around for Senior A participants.
Training under the guidance of Olympic gymnast Amanda Borden and a dedicated team of coaches at Gold Medal Gymnastics, Paisley devotes about 10 hours a week to perfect her skills. Her coaches this year include Helen Yamato (team head coach), Rachel (bars coach), Krista (floor coach), Kim (beam coach), and Charlie (vault coach).
Beyond gymnastics, Paisley is a member of the cross-country team at Kyrene Pueblo Middle School, which complements her gymnastics training by enhancing her speed and power, particularly in vault events. She also enjoys drawing, allowing her creative side to flourish.
Recognized for her outstanding performances and dedication, Paisley was named Gold Medal Gymnastics Gymnast of the Year, an honor awarded to only one gymnast across all levels at her gym.
Paisley has also shown remarkable resilience in overcoming a physical eye disorder called convergence insufficiency. After months of therapy as a child, this challenge has led to an unexpected advantage in her beam performances. Relying less on visual cues and more on muscle memory and proprioception, Paisley performs with her head up, enhancing her balance and precision on the beam.
Looking to the future, Paisley aspires to join an elite college gymnastics team and dreams of competing in the Summer Olympics in 2032. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and the balancing act between school and intensive training, she continues to excel academically and athletically, showing the resilience and discipline required to reach the heights of gymnastic success.
