Jessica Trotto has overcome some real challenges to be where she is today, co-captain of the Mount Si cheerleading squad as a junior.

Trotto, who was a club gymnast from a young age, fractured two of her lumbar discs at age 11. Her spinal fractures returned again last season, but she made it all the way to state anyway, and after a summer hiatus, is back, as a vocal presence on the team.

"Gymnastics is my life," Trotto explained. "I absolutely wanted to come back."

Along with co-captain and senior Lexi Swanson, Trotto is part of a solid core of state-experienced girls that includes juniors Hannah Richmond, Elizabeth Holmes, Carissa Castagno, sophomore Mackenzie Brown, and new freshmen additions Jennifer Rogers and Hailey Johnson. All in all, coach Jessica Easthope says Mount Si has a solid top ten.

Look for Trotto to be strong on beam, jazz it up on the floor, and help other girls know the ropes this season.

Her top goal: "I want to encourage other girls to do better," she said.  "I want to encourage them to see that the little skills progress bigger skills."

As for Swanson, she's pumped.

"This year, I have a great feeling that we're going to do awesome at state," the senior said. She's working on an advanced floor routine with plenty of flips, and enjoys connecting with the audience, winking at friends during her instrumental number.

She's excited about seeing friends like Jen Rogers join the team.

"It's like having another sister on the team."

Swanson's sister Olivia happens to be a junior varsity gymnast.

You can follow Mount Si gymnastics at http://mshsgymnastics.weebly.com.

 

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