Freshman Piper Smith came to the Plains for that hometown feeling and the team-first approach Auburn gymnastics provided. The Cherryville, N.C. product brought a wealth of club success to the squad and has potential to be an impactful gymnast for the team.
Q: What made Auburn stand out in the recruiting process?
A: Probably the fact that it literally felt like home. My hometown has the same feeling and it already felt like I was already a part of the family when I got here.
Q: What's your favorite Auburn tradition?
A: Rolling Toomer's Corner. I'm very bad at it. I can never make it on the tree, but I think it's fun to watch.
Q: If you could describe yourself in three words, what would you say?
A: Shy at first.
Q: What's your favorite aspect of gymnastics?
A: The competitiveness because I'm really competitive in every aspect. I think it's really fun to compete with a team because I've never really been a part of team that has a team-first mentality before I came to Auburn.
Q: What's your favorite event?
A: It varies day-to-day. Overall, bars is my favorite event.
Q: What's your favorite home cooked meal?
A: When my mom cooks steak and baked potatoes. I miss that a lot.
Q: What are some of your hobbies?
A: I don't really do anything outside of school and gymnastics. Derrian (Gobourne) and I were watching Dance Moms together.
Q: Who is your biggest fan and why?
A: My little sister. I think she looks up to me and she's so cute. Even though we don't really get along, but I know she's always pulling for me.
Q: Did you look up to any gymnasts growing up?
A: I looked up to Shawn Johnson because I felt like we are similar athletes. We're both powerful and quick. But I looked up to a lot of my teammates also.
Q: If you are stranded on an island, what teammates would you bring?
A: Derrian (Gobourne), Drew (Watson), and Addie (Sabados). I'd bring Addie because she's so sweet and she's very responsible.
Q: What three items would you bring?
A: My phone, a pillow, and a toothbrush because I don't want my teeth falling out.
Q: What are some of your goals?
A: Individually, I want to compete all-around eventually. As a team, I think making it to nationals this year.
Q: What's your major?
A: I'm majoring in exercise science because I want to be a physical therapist or a PTA.