The Lincoln-Way Girls Gymnastics team has etched its name into the history books by capturing third place at the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) State Championship for the first time in school history. The achievement marks a monumental milestone for the team and its passionate athletes, coaches, and supporters who have worked tirelessly to elevate the program to new heights. 

The team’s breakthrough performance came on February 20, 2025, when they faced off against some of the best gymnasts in the state. Competing against powerhouse programs, the Lincoln Way girls showcased a combination of precision, artistry, and athleticism that set them apart from the competition. With an impressive score of 147.650, the team solidified its place on the podium. The state competition saw Lincoln-Way’s gymnasts excelling across all disciplines, from vault to bars, beam, and floor. They earned high marks for their clean routines, innovative choreography, and composure under pressure. 

In an interview, Lincoln-Way Central Junior, Marissa Lacny, shared, “I think our confidence and trust in each other led to us having such a successful season.” This confidence and trust allowed the team to create an unbreakable bond which played a major role in the historic success of the team. Though they are proud of their hard work, they are just getting started and will continue to use the lessons they learned this season in future challenges in order to achieve even greater successes in the seasons to come. 

As Lincoln-Way Girls Gymnastics celebrates this milestone, they serve as an inspiration to other athletic programs, proving that with hard work, dedication, and teamwork, anything is possible. The third-place finish at state is not just a moment in time—it’s a statement that Lincoln-Way gymnastics is here to stay, and their future shines brighter than ever.