Gators gymnastics catches injury bug at Olympic Trials

Three Florida Gators made it to the US Olympic Trials in Minneapolis, Minnesota, but Leanne Wong is the only one still standing (literally) after one day of competition.

Incoming freshmen Skye Blakely and Kayla DiCello are done due to Achilles injuries. Blakely went down during floor exercises on Wednesday and DiCello was helped off the floor shortly during the opening event.

“Thank you so much for all your love and support,” DiCello wrote in a letter on social media Saturday. Unfortunately, I ruptured my Achilles on the opening event at Olympic Trials. While this is not the result I envisioned, there’s so much to be proud of.

“… As I begin my healing journey, I’m thankful for your prayers and good wishes. This is not the end of my story.”

DiCello was a reserve for the Tokyo Olympic Games. She has since been a “stalwart of the U.S. squad,” medaling at the 2021 World Championships and winning the 2023 U.S. World Championships as an alternate.

Last season, she earned All-American second-team honors and was named the 2023 SEC Freshman of the Year at Florida.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.