Houston proving to be a star for gymnastics team
Mika Houston, one of five freshmen on the 2001 Utah State gymnastics team, is proving to be a star.
Houston got an early jump on her gymnastics career, starting the sport when she was just 2 years old.
“All of my brothers and sisters did sports, so my mom just put me in gymnastics,” Houston said.
There were times she felt like quitting, but Houston hung in there.
“I’m glad,” she said. “There are times when I didn’t want to, but I stayed with it anyway. I like it more than ever before now.”
Here at Utah State, enjoying the smaller atmosphere compared to her hometown of Las Vegas. Houston is experiencing even more of the rewarding aspects of gymnastics.
“Some of the most rewarding parts of gymnastics is what you get out of it when you’re done [with competitio], and the friends you make and the paces that you get to go,” Houston said.
Although Houston said she hasn’t been anywhere “really exciting” yet, she has ventured to places like North Carolina and Texas. According to the Utah State gymnastics media guide, which is printed at the beginning of each season, the coaching staff said Houston has the ability to break any freshman records and is expected to see all-around action.
Halfway through the season, Houston hasn’t let her critics down.
“Mika Houston is going to be an outstanding star for this program,” said coach Ray Corn.
As far as the all-around competition is concerned, Houston opened the season in Boise with the all-around, posting a 36.075. Houston didn’t see all-around action for more than a month before she competed against San Jose State in the all-around. The time off was perhaps helpful – Houston recorded a season- high 38.550 in the event.
Hoping to participate in the all-around in future competitions, Houston said she really enjoys the event.
“I think Mika (participating in all-around competitions) is a necessity,” Corn said.
Most comfortable on the bars, Houston said she feels the most difficult event for her is the floor.
“I’m getting there,” Houston said. “I make some stupid mistakes, so I’m trying to work on those.”