University of Denver Spring 2025

Assistant Coach Mia Sundstrom (BA ’21, MA ’23) celebrates with Mia Hebinck in 2024.

Photo by Brittany Evans

Being an alumna means you are forever a part of the DU Gymnastics family. They’re often there on the sidelines, cheering on the team, but they also support the program and each other in various ways. “It’s important to stay involved, because you’re still helping create a legacy,” says Morgan (Tolman) Tabrum (BS ’16, MBA ’17). “Even though you’re not there all the time, when you are there, you’re creating a community of gymnastics friends that you’ll have forever.” Kutcher-Rinehart welcomes alumnae to practices and meets, and she invites them to give talks to the current team on topics like life after college. “There is no pro career for gymnastics,” says Tabrum, “so we talk about what the next steps look like and how to find your identity after.” “Sharing those stories builds a sense of history and legacy,” says Kutcher-Rinehart. “It also allows our athletes to shift their mindset, hear a different perspective and understand, appreciate and value what they have in front of them.” The alumni: Living the legacy

“You’ r e c r e a ti n g a commu n it y of g y m na s ti cs f r ie nd s th a t y ou’ ll h a v e fo r e v e r .”

Maddie (Karr) Wadman (BS ’20), now a season ticket holder, stops by practices and comes to events when her schedule allows. “If Melissa calls me or ever needs anything— to talk to some of the girls or help them

work through situations—I’m always available. I want to continue to see them succeed in the future, so I’m willing to help out however I can.” Remaining connected to the program is as valuable to the alumnae as it is to the current team. Says Julia Ross (BA ’17), “I feel like the program gave so much to me, and it’s still such a big part of myself. I will always carry a special place in my heart for DU Gymnastics.”

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UNIVERSITY OF DENVER MAGAZINE | SPRING 2025

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