Sep 07, 2022
SJV Gymnastics Team Making a Run after State Title
By Shanna O’Mara
Saint John Vianney’s 2021 gymnastics team went undefeated in the regular season, capturing eight wins and a Shore Conference title.
The girls’ gymnastics team at Saint John Vianney has waited long enough for a state title. Head Coach Tracie Vaz said that in its eight years since inception, the team has captured silver and bronze all too often. This year, the SJV girls will go for gold.
With nine returning athletes and six newcomers on the 2022 roster, the likelihood of SJV winning it all has never been greater. Senior all-around gymnasts Christina Troche, Shannon Ryan and Kylie Sitty will lead the pack with senior beam/vault specialist Ava Martocci. Juniors Ashley Salvensen and Lindsey Prager are expected to add to the team’s scoring, as well as sophomores Siya Khokhani, Asha Samuel and Lillian Murphy. This year’s freshmen class includes Reese Albano, Christina Fallon, Jordan Lackey, Ashley Sennigen, Melanie Wavro and Jaelyn Vaz.
The 2021 team went undefeated in the regular season, capturing eight wins and a Shore Conference title. They ultimately fell short in the state meet, placing third and fueling their need for victory this fall.
“Every year, my girls get better and better,” said Vaz, who leads the team with Assistant Coach Kim Cardinoza. “They’re such hard workers. They all come from different programs, but we mesh very well. I’m very excited to see how we do this year. Our seniors are all strong and are doing well right now. Our freshmen coming in are high-level gymnasts as well, so that’s a plus.”
Vaz said the team’s biggest rival is Freehold Township, though this year, they are also up against powerhouse teams from Trinity Hall, Neptune, Middletown North, Holmdel, Rumson-Fair Haven, Wall, Red Bank Catholic, Shore Regional and Ocean Township.
