Rochester Gymnasts Celebrate Close Bonds After Section Meet

Gymnasts from Century, John Marshall, and Mayo High Schools show strong community spirit.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

At the recent Rochester section gymnastics meet, athletes from the three local high school teams - Century, John Marshall, and Mayo - celebrated each other's performances with enthusiastic cheers and hugs, regardless of which school they represented. The close-knit community spirit among the rival teams was on full display as they supported one another throughout the competition.

Why it matters

High school sports often bring out a sense of school pride and rivalry, but the Rochester gymnastics teams have fostered an unusually strong bond that transcends those usual divisions. This level of camaraderie and mutual support is heartwarming to see and reflects the positive impact that sports can have in bringing a community together.

The details

Despite having separate rosters, the gymnasts from Century, John Marshall, and Mayo High Schools cheered each other on and embraced after every performance at the section meet. Coaches and athletes alike emphasized the close relationship between the teams, with one gymnast saying "We're there for each other no matter what." This spirit of sportsmanship and friendship was evident throughout the competition.

  • The Rochester section gymnastics meet took place on February 16, 2026.

The players

Century High School

One of the three high schools in Rochester, Minnesota that fields a gymnastics team.

John Marshall High School

One of the three high schools in Rochester, Minnesota that fields a gymnastics team.

Mayo High School

One of the three high schools in Rochester, Minnesota that fields a gymnastics team.

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The takeaway

The strong bonds and community spirit displayed by the Rochester high school gymnastics teams serve as an inspiring example of how sports can bring people together and foster a sense of unity, even among rival schools.