Whitney Kirby

Growing up in a small town in North Carolina, where every one knew every one by name, coming to the University of Georgia was a dramatic change. Leaving my family was difficult, as they have been such a huge part of my life. I admit that I was frightened and a little nervous, but that was not going to stop me. Attending UGA has been a life-long dream.

At the age of seven, my mom put me in my first gymnastics class. And I immediately fell in love! I stopped playing the other sports I had been interested in, like soccer and baseball, and focused entirely on gymnastics. I began by going once a week for one hour, and eventually ended up practicing over 30 hours a week. You could definitely say it was a central part of my life.

I remember flipping through television stations one day, and I saw the Georgia gymnastics team competing. I remember seeing the smiles on their faces, the glitter in their hair, and the excitement in their performances. I ran to my mother and told her that one day I would be a Georgia Gymdog. At the young age of eleven, I had a goal. These girls became my inspiration.

Now that I am here, it is everything I expected it to be and more. My team has become my family away from home, and these girls are my best friends. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have been blessed with, and I couldn't ask for more.