Washington-Lee High School Varsity Gymnastics Profile

A lot has changed in the 34 years since Joe D'Emidio took over as head coach of the Washington-Lee High School Varsity Gymnastics program.

The balance beams were wooden back then, and they were in the old high school building until two years ago. Now they have a terrific practice facility at their new high school and a team of 30 that has seen great success.

Last year, the Generals went undefeated winning districts as well as the Washington-Lee Invitational. The team tied for third at regionals. "Last year was a very good year. We hope to top it this year. We should do very well at districts," says D'Emidio.

Lili Olsen is a sophomore on the Generals team this year. It is her second year on varsity, and she has been competing since she was seven during her days at the YMCA Angels where D'Emidio coached her there as well. There are family ties to the sport as her dad, Allan, was a gymnast at Augustana College in Illinois.

Her goals for the season include being competitive in the all-around and help her team to get the high scores they need to continue their winning ways. Her favorite apparatuses are the vault and uneven bars.

"Even though it is a lot of hard work, you can be creative in this sport and plan your own routines," says Olsen. "We are a very close team. Everyone helps everyone else out. We are a strong team."