Recruit Spotlight: Arianna Espinoza

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Arianna Espinoza first fell in love with gymnastics when she was awed by the “big girls” doing back handsprings. Now one of the “big girls” herself, she has committed to the most successful and dominant program of the last decade—a forever dream school of hers—and has big dreams for what she wants to achieve in college.

Responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.

Club gym: Wildfire Gymnastics

College team: Oklahoma

Hometown: Lake Forest, California

How did you first fall in love with gymnastics?

I had so much energy as a kid, and I loved watching the big girls do back handsprings. I was always in awe seeing the skills they had.

What has been the highlight of your gymnastics career so far?

I think it would have to be winning a national floor title this past season.

What goals are you most excited about next season?

I am excited to compete either my Yurchenko one and a half or front handspring pike half on vault.

What are you really passionate about at the moment outside of gymnastics?

I love to bake gluten-free goodies!

You took official visits to Minnesota, Denver, Arkansas, and Oklahoma before making your decision. What was the most memorable activity that you did on any of the visits?

One of the most memorable activities was probably go-karting at a huge outdoor space.

What was it about Oklahoma that sealed the deal? Had it always been a dream school for you?

Ever since I started gymnastics, Oklahoma was my dream school. I loved watching the meets whenever I could, and finally being able to meet the amazing team really solidified my beliefs.

Who has made the biggest impact on your gymnastics career, and how have they inspired or shaped your journey?

My coaches—they have shaped and encouraged me both athletically and personally.

Was there a specific moment or competition when you realized college gymnastics was within your reach?

When I competed my half-in half-out on floor for the first time this last season. I always saw the college girls competing these huge skills, and once I got a skill like theirs, I felt like I belonged in that competition setting.

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?

I was injured for most of the season two years ago, which left me with just one meet to qualify for state, regionals, and beyond. It was just as challenging mentally as it was physically, but I’ve learned to be patient and to trust that everything happens for a reason. The experience brought me even closer to my faith as well.

What’s a personal gymnastics achievement you’re especially proud of that might surprise people?

I have learned how to push aside my mistakes and not let them affect me or my performance quality.

Looking ahead to your college career, what are you most excited to experience—both as a gymnast and in your personal life?

I am excited to continue to learn how to be an independent young woman as well as continue my academic journey, working toward becoming a physical therapist. I am also excited to continue to grow as a gymnast.