Julia Skellie of Foothills Gymnastics Academy was honored at the AAU Southeastern Regional Gymnastics Championship held June 18-19 in Charlotte, N.C., at the Bojangles Coliseum.

Gymnasts from all around the southeastern United States represented their home states in team as well as individual competitions. The entire competitive team at Foothills Gymnastics Academy in Tryon qualified for the N.C. AAU state team. It was the only gym in North Carolina to earn this distinction.
During the Saturday evening Spirit Celebration, several awards were given, including the Eddie Wortman AAU Memorial Gymnastics Award. Wortman was a dedicated gymnastics coach for many years in Florida who recently lost his battle with cancer. An award was established in his honor to recognize a gymnast who stands out above the rest in both character and sportsmanship as well as talent.
AAU officials said, “The memorial award is presented by AAU Gymnastics to the outstanding optional gymnast (Level 7 and up) who is at least 12 years old during the regional championship. While the gymnastics competency of the individual is of primary consideration, it is important that the gymnast exemplifies a true athlete in their demeanor, sportsmanship and image.”
Skellie was selected for the award out of nine gymnasts from across the southeast in the final nominations. Skellie was recognized for her outstanding AAU competition scores in the Modified Optional division. She was also recognized for her 4.7 GPA as a rising 10th grade honor student at Landrum High School; however, most notably for her character both in and out of the gym.
In her nomination, she was described as “a great leader to whom all of the gymnasts look-up to and strive to become. She works diligently on her routines, encourages fellow gymnasts, and shows the utmost respect for her coach, team parents and teammates. She is polite, respectful and a supportive friend. Julia Skellie epitomizes good sportsmanlike conduct and is an excellent role model.”
Skellie has been a competitive gymnast for Foothills Gymnastics Academy for six years and is coached by Jana Williamson. She has recently announced her retirement from the sport but will continue in gymnastics as an assistant coach for Foothills.
She is the daughter of David and Caroline Skellie of Campobello.
– article submitted
by Foothills Gymnastics