Motions Unlimited Gymnastics kicked off the 2026 competitive season at the Star Struck Invitational in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Competing from 16-17 Jan., the event served as both the team’s season opener and its first travel competition of the year.
Competition results
One of the weekend’s most dominant individual displays came from Level 9 athlete Sienna Santiago who claimed first place all-around along with gold medals on the vault and the beam.
In the Xcel Diamond level, the Motions squad secured a fourth-place team finish, anchored by several standout individual performances.
Zoey Anderson led the group by capturing second place all-around and multiple podium finishes, while Kirsten Roderick claimed a second-place finish on beam and fourth place all-around.
Sophia Santiago also earned a silver medal with her second-place result on bars, ending the meet sixth all-around.
The team’s scoring was further bolstered by Ella Conen, who earned fifth place all-around, and Cira Beraha, who Kelley Paz, Motions manager and a head coach said, “contributed solid routines in a deep field”.
The Xcel Platinum level saw Kamila Krupiniewicz finish eighth all around, highlighted by a fifth place showing on beam while Ava Hayward placed ninth all around.
Head coaches’ feedback
Motions Unlimited head coaches Alison Laidler and Paz both accompanied the Cayman squad to the Invitational.
A “thrilled” Laidler reflected on the event saying, “The girls have been working incredibly hard, and it showed on the competition floor. This was a fantastic start to the season.”
Paz shared the excitement, “I was absolutely thrilled watching them compete. “They looked strong, confident, and prepared so early in the season. This group has tremendous potential.”
“With medals, strong placements, and a promising team finish, Motions Unlimited Gymnastics returns home energized for the season ahead,” Paz added.
“This meet set the tone for an exciting year,” added Laidler. “We cannot wait to see how these athletes continue to grow.”
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