Local gymnast JJ Coleman will continue her gymnastics career at The Ohio State University, committing to being a Buckeye next fall.

“Bring New Mexico to the top. We are a very under-rated state, so we don’t get noticed a lot,” Coleman said.

After much consideration, Coleman chose to do Division I gymnastics at OSU over Michigan State and the University of Missouri.

“My mom did soccer and committed there on a scholarship, but she got injured and never went there, and the environment and everyone there made it so easy and comfortable. Also the coaches, the team environment… I loved it a lot,” Coleman said.

Coleman has been doing gymnastics for eight years, and is a junior at Volcano Vista High School. She trains at G-Force Gymnastic Academy on the West Side.

She credits ‘the three C’s’ — consistency, confidence and commitment — with helping her develop her gymnastics over the years, and of course, her coaches.

“I give thanks to (coach) Lisa and (coach) Gianna at G-Force; they helped me develop my skills and get me where I am,” Coleman said. “And obviously, my parents; they are my biggest supporters.”

Coleman hopes to one day open her own gym and coach. She wants to continue to pass knowledge to any aspiring gymnast.

“If you got big dreams, go big,” Coleman said. “Trust your gut; always remember what you want.”

JJ Coleman. Future Buckeye.