Athlete of the Month: Rose Kibala

Alec Scully

As we have all been told at some point in our lives, sports are not for everyone. One of the reasons we are told this is because not everyone is willing to put in the time needed to play on an organized sports team. Dedication, however, has not been a problem for Junior Rose Kibala, captain of the gymnastics team and January’s athlete of the month.

Kibala has been competing in gymnastics for nine years, both in Seattle and in Deltchev Gymnastics Academy, located in Nevada. Although all high school sports are time consuming, Kibala has the motivation necessary to improve in gymnastics.

“I sacrifice a lot of time for gymnastics, but the desire I have to reach my goals and my love for the sport keep me motivated to show up every day and work hard for myself and teammates,” Kibala said.

Kibala is also a member of the school’s track and field team, but she enjoys gymnastics because of the way it can reflect a person’s personality.

“In comparison to track, I like that in gymnastics you can put your own personality into what you do, and there is always something new that you can learn,” Kibala said.

As far as her personal goals go, Kibala plans on qualifying for state for the second consecutive year, and is striving for a state title on the floor or beam events. These lofty goals have come from improvements that Kibala made this season.

“Gymnastics require a lot of mental toughness, and this year I’ve been able to overcome my fears on the beam, which has improved my confidence this year in competition and practice,” she said.

Another part of gymnastics that Kibala puts emphasis on is setting an example for the younger members of the team, saying that “I dedicate myself to being at practice every day and working hard to set a good example for our underclassmen. My teammates and I make sure to encourage everyone by cheering and supporting them in practice and in competition, because it is important to keep a positive vibe.”

State competition begins for Kibala in February, the next gymnastics meet is at home on Friday against Woodinville and Ballard.

Photo courtesy of Bettie Espinosa Kibala