My Biography
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.