The Park District of Highland Park’s competitive gymnastics team had an incredible showing at the 2025 AAU State Meet, held May 3 in Romeoville, IL. Our talented athletes competed with passion, poise, and power, bringing home top finishes and showcasing the strength of our program.

Leading the charge was Shay Kessel, who delivered a stellar performance to become the All-Around Champion in the Senior B division. Shay also claimed individual state titles on Vault and Floor, standing proudly atop the podium.

Teammate Naomi Mandel impressed with a 2nd place finish on Beam, and strong placements on Vault (4th), Floor (4th), and All-Around (5th).

Kelsey Woelfle rounded out the Level 3 success with a 2nd place finish on Floor and 7th in the All-Around (Senior A division).

Our Level 4 gymnasts also brought home a slew of Top 10 finishes:

• Canella Papakos placed 4th on Beam, 6th on Bars, and 5th on Floor and All-Around in the Senior A division.
• In the Senior B division, Elise Martin secured a 9th place finish on Beam.
• Lena Whittman took 5th on Vault, while
• Noa Schwab earned 5th on Bars and 6th on Floor.
• Olivia Rogic had a strong all-around showing, placing 7th on Vault, 5th on Beam and Floor, and 7th in the All-Around.

We’re incredibly proud of all our athletes and their hard work leading up to this event. Their dedication, sportsmanship, and team spirit truly stood out on the state stage.