Local Gymnast Chailyn Stanley Secures NCAA Scholarship at Saint Leo

UPDATE: Star gymnast Chailyn Stanley has officially announced her commitment to Saint Leo University, securing a scholarship for the emerging Acro and Tumbling program. This exciting news comes just ahead of the NCAA national signing period, which begins today, November 12, 2023.

Chailyn, a dedicated athlete at Key City Gymnastics, is poised to graduate from Mount Baker Secondary School in 2026. After competing for over a decade, she has attracted attention from several Division 1 and Division 2 schools, but her passion for Acro and Tumbling and her connection to Saint Leo led her to make this pivotal decision.

In her own words shared on social media, Chailyn expressed her joy: “I am overjoyed to share that I have verbally committed to Saint Leo University on a scholarship, where I’ll be pursuing my academic and athletic passions! I am grateful for God’s guidance and strength in making this dream a reality.”

Chailyn’s commitment is significant for the Acro and Tumbling community, which has been gaining traction since its first competition in 2010. The sport will host its inaugural NCAA championship during Chailyn’s first season in 2027, marking a milestone for athletes entering this competitive field.

Chailyn plans to officially sign her scholarship at Key City Gymnastics on November 13, 2023, surrounded by her supportive teammates, coaches, and family. She expressed her gratitude, stating, “To my family, your unwavering support means the world to me. To my coaches and teammates, who’ve been my second family for 11 years, thank you for helping me grow into the athlete I am today. Choosing wasn’t easy, but I’m thankful for the opportunities that led me here. Thank you to Coach B, Coach Lizzy, and Coach Abbie for believing in me. I’m excited to join the team! Go Lions!”

Chailyn’s journey is a testament to hard work and dedication, as she has aspired to compete on an NCAA team since she was just 10 years old. Her remarkable achievement not only highlights her personal commitment but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring gymnasts everywhere.

As the signing day approaches, excitement builds for Chailyn and the entire Key City Gymnastics community. Stay tuned for more updates on her journey and the future of Acro and Tumbling at the NCAA level.