University of North Carolina Athletics
Gymnastics Spotlight Of The Week: Jennifer Valby
January 13, 2009 | Women's Gymnastics
Jan. 13, 2009
1) How did you get started in gymnastics?
My mom signed me up for gymnastics when I was 7 years old because I loved to be up high. I would always climb on top of my dresser to play with my toys up there rather than on the ground.
2) What do you like most about being an athlete at UNC?
UNC is such a well-respected university with a tradition of excellence. It's an honor to be a part of an athletic program with such prestige and I'm grateful that my hard work paid off and that I was given the opportunity to come here.
3) What is your favorite and least favorite event? And why?
Vault is one of my favorite events because it has always been the easiest for me and it's over very quickly! I also really like floor because it's a lot of fun to compete. I guess bars would be my least favorite event because it's the scariest for me to do.
4) Of all your teammates, past and present, who have you learned the most from? And why?
My teammates here at UNC, Kara Wright and Kristina Jacob, are two of the hardest working people I've ever met, in the gym and in the classroom. I've always admired their focus and determination. So when my mind occasionally starts to wander in the gym, I look over at them, working hard as usual, and that keeps me focused too.
5) What has been your proudest gymnastics moment in your collegiate career?
I can't really pick just one. There have been so many highlights during my time here. Our team winning EAGL my freshman year was amazing and getting a 9.9 on vault at a meet against West Virginia was exciting too...just to name a couple. But, I'm always proud of our team and proud to be a Tar Heel!
6) What is the best advice you have ever received?
At every meet our head coach, Derek Galvin, says, "Do your best and let God do the rest." I always take this to heart. It helps me focus only on doing my very best and not worrying about other teams, scores, judges, etc.
7) Do you have any pre-meet rituals or superstitions?
Not really. I just like to get dressed and ready pretty early so that I have time to relax and visualize each of my routines a couple of times.
8) Who in your life do you admire the most? And why?
I most admire my parents because they are wonderful people. They've instilled good values in me, been supportive of everything I've done, and have just been great role models in general.
9) Since this is your last year competing in college, what do you think you will miss the most?
I will miss the team and the coaches here at UNC. They are like my family here. They are all such great people and they're lots of fun to be around, so I will miss spending time with them in and out of the gym.
10) What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to attend law school starting next fall. I'm in the process of sending in applications right now so hopefully that will work out.
Players Mentioned
