Get to know Utah commit Ayla Miller, a standout from Twin City Twisters with big goals and a love for the little moments that make gymnastics special. Hailing from Big Lake, Minnesota, Miller is known for her consistency on bars and deep appreciation for the people who’ve shaped her journey. In this Q&A, she opens up about everything from learning to adapt through challenges to the feeling of finally mastering a Ray, her college gymnastics bucket list, and her admiration for gymnasts like Hezly Rivera and Grace McCallum.
Responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Club gym: Twin City Twisters
College team: Utah
Hometown: Big Lake, Minnesota
How did you first fall in love with gymnastics?
I started in a recreational class, then got asked to join the competitive group a year later. I fell in love with the sport, and loved trying new skills.
What has been the highlight of your gymnastics career so far?
The highlight of my career has been the people I’ve met along the way. There are so many talented and passionate people who are truly lifelong best friends.
What skill took you the longest to master, and how did it feel when you finally nailed it?
A Ray on bars, when I finally got it consistently, felt so good, and I felt very accomplished. I’ve loved them ever since!
What’s something outside of gymnastics that you’re really passionate about right now?
Spending time with my family and friends. I love going to the lake and spending quality time with them.
Who has made the biggest impact on your gymnastics career, and how have they inspired or shaped your journey?
My coaches have made a very big impact on my career; there has never once been a time when they doubted me. They have always encouraged and pushed me. That got me to where I am today, and I’m forever grateful for every single one of them.
Was there a specific moment or competition when you realized college gymnastics was within your reach? Can you tell us about that experience?
I knew I wanted to do college gymnastics at a very young age, growing up in such a supportive and successful environment where I believe you can do anything you want with the right people in your life.
What’s one of the toughest challenges you’ve faced in gymnastics, and how has overcoming it shaped you as both an athlete and a person?
Last year, there were a lot of changes that I had to learn to adapt to, which ultimately made me a stronger person and gymnast and made me grow as a leader and person.
Everyone talks about big wins, but tell us about a moment of quiet pride—something only you and maybe your coach noticed.
How I’ve learned to adapt to situations that are thrown my way, work through struggles, and overcome things.
Looking ahead to your college career, what are you most excited to experience, both as a gymnast and in your personal life?
I’m so excited to get the opportunity to grow as a person and gymnast. As well as learn from the many amazing and talented people that Utah has!
What’s something on your college gymnastics bucket list?
Win NCAA nationals!
Rapid Fire Questions
Vault, bars, beam, or floor? Bars
Ice bath or hot tub? Hot tub
Which four gymnasts would be on your college gymnastics Mount Rushmore? Hezly Rivera, Grace Mccallum, Elle Mueller, and Lexi Ziess
What’s your most-used emoji? 
What’s one of your pre-meet rituals or superstitions? There are too many to count!
What’s a hidden talent people may not know about? I can wakeboard.
What do you want to be when you grow up? I would like to continue working in athletics.
What’s your favorite leotard your college team has worn? This one!
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Article by KT Couldrey and Elizabeth Grimsley
