Gymnastics Fan Decries ‘Generalizations’ in Young Athlete’s Profile

As an ex-teammate of Annie Dixon and a current gymnastics coach, I was disturbed by the glaring generalizations that were published in the article, “Spotlight Inspires Her to Shine” (May 16).

Most of the generalizations were made by Darla Franz and her staff--not the reporter. But, I believe that the reporter should have verified Franz’s conclusions before printing them.

First, the reporter states that, “High school gymnastics is a far cry from the level at which Herrmann and teammate Wendy Ick . . . compete.” This statement is inaccurate. Last season Ick competed level 9. This high school season many level 9 gymnasts competed for the San Diego Section CIF crown, including Julianne Somers and Justine Eady of the Cuyamaca YMCA in Santee, along with Annie Bretado of Morse High School.

Secondly, Franz states that the future of the sport is at Herrmann’s level, not in high school or in college, which the reporter reiterates when she says, “college-aged gymnasts are past their prime . . .” These statements are fallacious. In 1988, Kelly Garrison Steves was attending college in Oklahoma and was also a member of the United States Olympic team.

Franz states, “She’s (Herrmann) doing skills Annie only dreamed of doing.” Because Dixon is still competing, this statement may unfairly cloud her reputation as a gymnast. Although Herrmann has potential, Dixon has proven herself as a distinguished elite gymnast. It will take Herrmann time to do this, as it did for Dixon. Potential in a sport like gymnastics is important, but what’s more important is the here and now. Herrmann still has to wrestle with puberty and injuries, although I sincerely hope they will not affect her potential. Conclusive evidence on how well she will do in the future cannot be predicted accurately. At the present time, Dixon is ranked higher than Herrmann and should not be reepresented as anything less.

Finally, Franz reinforces a stereotype when she says, “She fits the mold, cute, blonde, petite, All-American.” This is a stereotype because good All-American gymnasts come in many shapes, sizes, and colors.

MICHELLE T. McTIGHE, El Cajon