It's time to meet the Auburn gymnastics freshman class as we bring you Q&As with the newcomers. Our final freshman is Tara Walsh!
Hometown: Waterford, Mich.
Club: Olympia Gymnastics
Prior to Auburn: Two-time J.O. Nationals competitor … Fifth on floor at 2019 J.O. Nationals … 2019 J.O. Region 5 Floor champion … Finished third in the all-around at the 2018 J.O. Region 5 Championship … Came in second on floor, third on vault and fourth in the all-around at the 2019 state meet.
Q: Why did you choose Auburn?
A: I chose Auburn because I loved so much about the school. I loved the facilities, coaching philosophy, all of the support that the gymnasts get and how close the team is. I felt like Auburn was the place that I would be able to improve as a gymnast and as a student. Also, I loved the campus and school pride.
Q: Moving to Alabama from Michigan, what are the biggest differences in everyday life?
A: The biggest difference is not being able to see my family every day. I still talk to them on the phone as much as possible, but it is not the same as seeing them in person. Other small differences are the warmer weather, which I love, and people saying "y'all".
Q: When did gymnastics become your passion?
A: I started gymnastics when I was two years old and I have done it my whole life. I would say it became my passion when I was around eight because that is when I started taking it really seriously and prioritizing it.
Q: What is your all-time favorite TV show?
A: I have so many shows that I like, but I can't pick a favorite. My favorites are The Vampire Diaries, Gilmore Girls, and Criminal Minds.
Q: Cold or hot weather? Why?
A: I really like warm weather. However, since I've been here, I have learned that I really like having all four seasons. It didn't feel like the holiday season without cold weather!
Q: What's your favorite snack food?
A: I really like snacking on fruit or skinny pop.
Q: What has been your biggest setback in your career and how did you overcome it?
A: The biggest setback I have had in my gymnastics career is having to take time off for COVID-19. All the gym facilities in Michigan had to close down for the whole summer, and it was really hard coming to college without practicing for a while. I am very appreciative that the coaches here let me come back at my own pace. It took a lot of hard work to get my strength and skills back, but it makes me more excited for this season.
Q: Before a meet, what song(s) gets you pumped up?
A: I like to listen to any top hits because I can sing along, and it calms me down. I also like listening to Post Malone because it gets me pumped up.
Q: Dogs or cats? Why?
A: Dogs. I have a dog named Finn and I can't imagine my life without him. Dogs are more fun to play with, take on walks, and cuddle with!
Q: What do you do to calm your butterflies while you compete?
A: I like to sing and dance to my favorite music before the meet. During the meet, I like to talk with my teammates so we can motivate and prepare each other.
Q: Do you have any pre-meet rituals or superstitions? If so, how long have you been doing them?
A: I always wear the same Auburn shirt to every meet. I have been doing this since I committed about two years ago. I also eat salmon the night before every meet. I have been doing that since freshman year of high school.
Q: What are your personal and team goals you aspire to achieve in your next four years?
A: Personally, I want to be able to compete for my team on any event. I want to be prepared and capable to compete on all four events so I can help my team wherever they need me. As a team, I want the team to work together to break school records and level up our competition.
Q: Where do you go to study? Your room or the library? Why?
A: I like to switch up where I am studying a lot. I usually study in my room because I do not have to pack up all my stuff. However, I also like to study at the business building, the student center, the library, or coffee shops when I get bored of studying in my room.
Q: What is the coolest thing you've ever done?
A: I went surfing in Costa Rica a couple summers ago. On that same trip, I went ziplining in the jungle and horseback riding on the beach!
