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By Elizabeth Faletti, BASOC Volunteer and Editor
The Olympic Games are a culmination of years of dreams, sacrifice, and will. It is in this arena that Olympians strive to give the performance of their lives. One such moment was the dramatic performance of Kerri Strug, BASOC's Olympic Icon for May. Strug performed her last vault on an injured ankle to help the U.S. team, also known as the Magnificent Seven, clinch the first ever U.S. Olympic Gold medal in the 1996 team cpmpetition. Strug's courageous performance on the vault at the Atlanta Games in 1996 was recognized with the Olympic Spirit Award (also presented to Carl Lewis). As Kerri states, "It's funny how one moment can change your life forever."
Her success in Atlanta opened many doors and allowed Kerri to work with many children's charities and organizations such as the Special Olympics, Children's Miracle Network, DARE, Pediatric Aids, Make-a-Wish, Childhelp, and NO-ADDiction. Her efforts in the community were recognized with the Reebok/Lady FootLocker Giving Back Award presented by the Women's Sports Foundation.
No longer competing at the 'old age' of 24, Strug frequently travels to gymnastics camps to visit with kids, parents, and coaches. Living in Palo Alto, Kerri prepares for her first teaching position in the Bay Area. Kerri took some time out to talk about her famous vault, her commitment to children, and where she is today.
What are your future plans?
I've decided to teach elementary school next year. I love children - I've had a lot of interaction with them through the charitable organizations I'm involved with. I have a job in the area starting in September teaching the primary grades - first, second, or third. I was going to pursue my Masters in Education next year but I've decided to teach for a year to see if that's really what I want to do. In the primary years, children develop their views about school. A clear understanding of the basics is so important early on in life. My heart goes out to children who have physical, emotional, or mental challenges. I think because I'm small and I have a high voice, kids really relate to me and they feel comfortable.
How did you become involved in BASOC?
I spoke with Anne Cribbs. BASOC CEO, at an event for Athletes for Arthritis. We had met once before through the Women's Sports Foundation. She asked if I wanted to be involved with BASOC and I said, "Sure!" Since I've been in the Bay Area I've realized that it has so much to offer. There's a lot of culture here. I think it would be great for the Olympic Games because many local communities can get involved. I feel very strong about the Olympic Movement and about the Olympic Games being here in the States. I think it's a whole different experience when it's in your home country. The pride you feel when it's on your home turf gives you a certain attitude.
How do you see yourself participating in a 2012 San Francisco Olympic Games?
I don't think I'll be coaching or be involved in any way with the competition. But, if I am a teacher in the area, I will integrate the Olympic Games in my class and get the children involved. Personally, I can't wait to be a spectator! I've been to a lot of Olympic Games and every time you go it is so exciting just to be there. I'd definitely like to get tickets to all my favorite events.
What are your favorite Summer Olympic sports?
I really like track and field, men's basketball, swimming, diving, and soccer. It's also nice to watch other events, for example, Greco Roman Wrestling.
Why is the floor routine your favorite gymnastic event?
I think because it came most naturally to me and you can physically fall down, but you can't fall off of it! I think that made me feel much better than the balance beam or uneven bars. Also, I think you get to show a little more of your personality and the crowd gets involved. I was just better at the more powerful events because I am very short and more muscular than most. I succeeded in those events because I was more comfortable with them and also my body type played a factor.
What is your most memorable Olympic moment?
Besides my vault?! Obviously, the last couple years have been amazing. I've been able to meet people, partake in certain events, and give back to society because of that one vault. Without the Olympics, I wouldn't be who I am today. I will always carry the qualities that were instilled in me at an early age, such as being disciplined and focused. I think that's really important. The Olympic Games, especially Atlanta, opened up a whole new world. At the same time, I've come to realize that my Olympic moment was great but there are plenty of Olympic moments. The Olympic Games keep coming and more people keep doing great things and I think that's what is so special about the Olympic Games - all of the athletes who come out of nowhere and achieve beyond everyone's expectations. I want to do what I can because I feel so strongly about the Olympic Games.
Thank you Kerri and good luck with your new pursuits!
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