Mizzou Freshman Hannah Horton Overcomes Adversity, Soaring to Success
Horton, named to the All-SEC Team and All-SEC Freshman Team during her debut season, demonstrated remarkable resilience and success in the face of a challenge that could have derailed her burgeoning career: the twisties.
## Facing Down Fear: A Freshman’s Journey
Adjusting to the high-stakes world of collegiate athletics is difficult for any athlete. But for Hannah Horton, a whirlwind freshman year at the Mizzou Invitational gave way to a daunting mental hurdle. After a fantastic start, conquering the vault event and claiming a second-place finish on the floor event, she began to struggle. “I was just very down on myself, and it was quite a hard time – traveling all the time, practice and school,” she said. “On top of that, I felt like I wasn’t at the level I was at because I was struggling on floor and vault.” The notorious “twisties” – a mental block where gymnasts lose spatial awareness and twist in the air – threatened to derail her progress.
But instead of succumbing to pressure, Horton dug deep and found the strength to push through. “For gymnastics, you have to learn how to compartmentalize. If you’re upset about something that happened in the last rotation, you have to learn how to cut that off and be better on the next event,” she said.
Reaffirming her commitment to growth, Horton sought out support from coaches, teammates, and relied on the valuable lessons learned along the way. Recognizing that a break could be beneficial, she even had the wisdom to step back from competing in the Arkansas meet.
“So, I think now, especially with that happening, I had to be more intentional with myself, so I can know what I did so I could bring myself back on track,” she said. Horten summed up.
## A Powerful Comeback and a Family Affair
Horton didn’t just overcome her setbacks; she thrived. At the 2024 SEC Championships, she garnered two prestigious league accolades and earned the highest score of the afternoon on vault, proving her resilience and exceptional talent. The experience solidified not only her athletic abilities but fostered a deep well of confidence and the mental fortitude necessary to meet any challenge.
But for Horton, success isn’t just measured in medals and accolades. Dynasties are built upon strong foundations. And for Horton, that foundation is family.
HOverride: When presenting Deliberate self-learned skill set: “I just want to make Police:
Simply start: “I was very down on myself, and it was quite a hard time during that — traveling all the time, practice and school,” Horton said. “On top of that, I felt like I wasn’t at the level I was at because I was struggling on floor and vault”. Nourishing
Her Gymnastics Career: With Family as Her Steadfast Support
Horton’s gymnast background was nurtured by her beloved older brother, John. He introduced her to the world of skilled gymnastic moves at just five years old. John taught her how to do a back handspring. Witnessing her immediately connecting with the sport, he convinced their parents to sign her up for gymnastics classes, setting the stage for a journey that would lead her to compete for the Tigers.
While she grew up in Minnesota, her family roots are
What specific techniques or mental exercises did Hannah use to overcome the “twisties” and regain her confidence in her skills?
## Interview with Freshman Gymnastics Sensation, Hannah Horton
Today, we have the incredible Hannah Horton joining us. Hannah, you had a phenomenal freshman year at Mizzou, being named to both the All-SEC Team and the All-SEC Freshman Team. Congratulations! But your journey wasn’t without its challenges. Can you share a little about what you faced this season?
**Hannah:** Thanks so much for having me! It was definitely a year of highs and lows. I started strong, especially on vault and floor, but then hit a rough patch. Dealing with the “twisties” was really tough mentally. It felt like I lost my confidence, and the pressure of competing at the collegiate level was overwhelming at times.
**Interviewer:** The “twisties” are a serious challenge for any gymnast. How did you cope with them and manage to bounce back?
**Hannah:** It was a process. I had amazing support from my coaches and teammates; they were incredibly understanding and encouraging. I learned a lot about compartmentalizing, about pushing past negative thoughts and focusing on the present moment.
**Interviewer:** Your resilience is truly inspiring. What advice would you give to other young gymnasts facing similar struggles?
**Hannah:** Never give up on yourself. There will be tough times, but those are also opportunities to grow and learn. Lean on your support system, trust your training, and remember why you love this sport.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for your honesty and insight, Hannah. We wish you all the best for a successful sophomore season.
**Hannah:** Thank you for having me!