AUBURN, Ala. – Another school year means another season of Auburn gymnastics! And as we get ready to kick off the 2024 season in January, it is time to get to know the 10 newcomers to the squad. Next up is junior Lila Smith!
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Club: Georgia Elite
Prior to Auburn: USAG Level 10 Development Program National Championship qualifier … Region 8 beam champion … State champion in the all-around and on beam.
Q: Why Auburn?
A: "Being on campus at Auburn, I always felt at home. When I came for my visit, I realized how special Auburn is. The coaches made me feel seen and cared about as a person and athlete. The girls were so welcoming, and I felt like it was the perfect fit for me. The Auburn Family is so real, and it makes for an amazing experience."
Q: What's your major and why did you choose it
A: "My major is Exercise Science. Growing up in sports and knowing I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, exercise science was an easy choice."
Q: What do you hope to do once you are done with school?
A: "Once I graduate, I hope to go to PA school and pursue a career as a physician's assistant."
Q: What's your favorite thing about your hometown?
A: "My favorite thing about my hometown, Atlanta, is the shopping and restaurants. I love that there is always something to do, somewhere to shop, and new restaurants to try!"
Q: What does a typical day in your life at Auburn look like?
A: "A typical day in my life starts by waking up around 7. I usually grab some coffee and head to treatment and classes. From there, I head to the Wellness Kitchen to fuel up for practice. After practice, I usually return to Wellness for dinner and hang out with the team for a little while. Then, I spend a little bit of time studying either at home or SADC before I go to bed."
Q: What's your favorite event and why?
A: "Beam is my favorite event to practice and compete! I love the combination of performance and skill. Plus, there is something so satisfying about hitting a great routine when the pressure is on."
Q: What are you most looking forward to here at Auburn?
A: "I am looking forward to being in such a positive environment with so much support from the staff and girls. I am excited for this season and competing with the team. I can't wait to see how far this team can take it and what we are capable of!"
Q: How did you get involved in gymnastics?
A: "I went to a birthday party at a gym and the coach had me try a couple extra things. From there, they convinced me to sign up for classes and I've loved it ever since."
Q: What is your pre-meet ritual?
A: "A Starbucks shaken espresso is a must-have on meet day."
Q: With being a transfer, what are you most excited about coming to Auburn?
A: "I am excited to be in such a great atmosphere and compete in front of the best fans. I can't wait for my first meet in Neville Area and getting to experience the energy of a home meet."
Q: Did having your brother and sister both go to Auburn influence your decision to come here?
A: "Definitely! My brother and sister, along with a few other family members, loved Auburn and had great experiences here. I got a glimpse into how special Auburn is and what it means to be a part of the Auburn Family. I am so thankful for the opportunity to follow in their footsteps and experience it myself!"
Q: What fashion trend do you hope never comes back?
A: "I could never get on board with low-rise jeans."
Q: If you were in a zombie apocalypse, what person on the team would you want with you?
A: "If I were in a zombie apocalypse, I would probably want Jersie (Woolsey) to be with me. I know she would be ready to put up a fight, have my back, and she can be pretty resourceful."
Q: What is the weirdest food you have tried, and would you try it again?
A: "The weirdest food I have tried is grilled octopus. I actually liked it so I would order it again."
