Purple Strong

The GymDawgs Empower Each Other To Be Purple Strong // 1.22.19

By Washington Huskies

January 23^rd, 2019

At the University of Washington, everyone is celebrated, welcomed and supported on campus. The GymDawgs promote inclusion and unity while playing for those who have helped them get to this point in their athletics careers. The gymnastics team is no exception. They all work together to stress the values of Purple Strong.

"Someone who is Purple Strong is strong, confident in themselves, and willing to push through tough times," says Maya Washington. "They don't give up and work their hardest at everything they do."

The GymDawgs are from all over the country. From Florida to Alberta to Washington, this squad features diverse backgrounds, experiences and cultures. With their different life experiences, the team learns from each other and builds each other up to be the best they can be. This is what Purple Strong means to the team.

The importance of inclusion, hard work, and respect is emphasized throughout the program, be they seniors or freshmen. "Being Purple Strong is working hard to represent the University of Washington in a positive way and promoting inclusion for everybody," says Hannah Vandenkolk.

This team has proven that they can come together to achieve those goals. In 2017, the GymDawgs went to NCAA Nationals for the first time since 1998. In 2018, Washington repeated that feat, making it to back-to-back Nationals for just the second time in program history. This season, the team has started just as strong, entering this weekend ranked 11th in the country.

The attitude of being Purple Strong is infectious among the team and on campus. It is an inclusive environment and respect is given to all. In gymnastics, the members of the team give a particular emphasis to respecting those of all ages because they understand the importance of reaching out and being kind to those younger fans who look up to them.

"Someone who is Purple Strong perseveres through adversities and never gives up no matter how tough things may seem," says Kristyn Hoffa. "To be Purple Strong is to be dedicated and passionate."

The GymDawgs understand that they would not be where they are today without the support of their families, coaches and everyone who has had a Purple Strong mentality along their journey. Becoming a collegiate gymnast is a difficult journey. To have the support and belief of others despite different backgrounds and appearances means everything to an athlete.