Sophomore Siena Fikis has been named this week’s athlete of the week for girls gymnastics because of her unmatched commitment to her sport and display of E.A.S.T.’s core values of excellence, academics, spirit, and tradition. 

Fikis is a multisport athlete and has been doing gymnastics since she was three years old, making the sport a very important part of her life. In her time at East, with a very vigorous schedule of sports and extracurricular activities, she has continued to prioritize and thrive in gymnastics.

Head girls’ gymnastics coach Michael Borge has noticed Fikis’ role as a strong piece of the team and how she not only proves herself on the mat, but also as a cheerleader for her teammates.

“Siena is one of the best cheerleaders for her peers in the program. Not only is she loud and enthusiastic, but this enthusiasm is rooted in genuine care for others.” Borge said.

Aside from being a dedicated cheerleader, she is recognized by her coach as a dedicated athlete who continues to prove her love for gymnastics.

“Despite an incredibly busy schedule, Siena consistently prioritizes gymnastics in and out of season. Siena makes it to gymnastics practices out of season despite her softball schedule that may require her to leave early or arrive late,” Borge said. “It is always clear that training for gymnastics is a priority, and it shows in her consistency on the competition floor.”

Fikis is heading into this season with big goals. As a second-year team member, she is hoping to continue to grow this season and individually qualify for sections in the floor event. 

Fikis had a setback earlier this season with an ankle injury, which has only motivated her to work harder and strive to be her best this year. 

“What motivates me is just the thought of being able to succeed after everything I’ve done and coming back from the injury and proving that I can do hard things,” Fikis said.

Sydney Ross, a senior on the gymnastics team, also recognizes Fikis’ attributes as a teammate and has enjoyed having her on the team. 

“Siena is such a supportive and hardworking teammate, I am so glad she joined the team two years ago,” Ross said. “She is always positive and encouraging at meets!”

Not only does Fikis push herself on the mat, but she also pushes herself with a vigorous course load and maintains a strong academic standing. Her work ethic is clear to those around her and continues to be one of her recognized strengths.

“Fikis does not tolerate less than her best in the classroom in the same way that she does not tolerate less than her best in the gym,” Borge said.

While Fikis is only a sophomore, she already has big plans for her future, which include studying criminal law at Indiana University Bloomington.