Balancing two demanding sports takes a rare combination of discipline, resilience, and passion—qualities that define Stanley-Boyd sophomore Jocelyn Hager. A dedicated gymnast and multi-event track athlete, Hager continues to push herself across seasons while embracing the challenges and rewards each sport brings.

This spring, Hager is back on the track competing in a variety of events. During the indoor season, she runs the 55-meter and 200-meter dashes and competes in the triple jump. Outdoors, she expands her focus to the 100-meter, 200-meter, and relay events. While she enjoys the individual competition, it’s the team aspect that stands out most. “I really like running relays because running with my friends is always so fun,” she said.

Though the track season is still young, Hager is already seeing progress. With one meet completed, she’s proud of her growth, noting that she has continued improving from last year. That steady development reflects her commitment, as well as her appreciation for the sport’s energy. She credits the activity level and team atmosphere as key reasons she enjoys being part of the program. One of her favorite memories came last season when she helped her 4x200 relay team qualify for state—an experience that continues to motivate her.

Outside of track, Hager has built an impressive gymnastics career that began in first grade. Inspired by watching an older student perform skills on the playground, she quickly found her passion. “I compete in all four women's events: vault, bars, beam and floor. I enjoy performing floor the most, but beam is definitely my favorite to practice.” She trains at Ultimate Performance Gymnastics and Cheer (UPGC), where Hager continues to refine her skills and grow as a competitor.

Her gymnastics journey has included memorable team experiences, such as attending the Whitewater gymnastics camp, where bonding with teammates strengthened their already close-knit group. That sense of family is a defining part of her experience. “The environment of our team makes us like siblings,” she shared. “Most of us have been doing it together since we were young, and we've spent so much time together that were all very close.”

This season, however, has also tested her resilience. Facing multiple injuries, Hager has had to spend time away from competition. “Gymnastics is challenging both mentally and physically. I've experienced many injuries this season and it’s hard to go into the gym and watch my teammates being able to practice when I can't. I've grown to keep a positive attitude and remember that its only temporary and this time off can help me heal faster,” she said, maintaining a positive mindset.

Despite those setbacks, Hager’s accomplishments remain impressive. Competing at Level 9, she currently ranks among the top gymnasts in Wisconsin—2nd on vault, 7th on bars, and 8th in the all-around. Her goals continue to evolve as she progresses, from aiming to qualify for Westerns this season to setting her sights on reaching Level 10 in the future.
Much of her growth, Hager says, comes from the influence of a mentor who has helped shape her as an athlete. “The owner of my gym has made the biggest impact on me because I've grown up with her being there as an important figure in my life. Naturally, her opinion means a lot to me, and she's helped me to realize my potential,” she said.

Hager’s success has not gone unnoticed. Lynn Wingert, co-owner and founder of UPGC praised Hager’s dedication and leadership, noting, “Jocelyn has been having an amazing year competing in gymnastics as a Level 9, winning multiple all-around and event titles. Unfortunately, she injured her wrist before the state meet, which has kept her from the rest of the championship season. She is focused in the gym and accomplishes the goals she sets for herself. She is a team leader and a great supporter of her teammates, always being encouraging.”

Whether sprinting down the track or performing on the beam, Jocelyn Hager exemplifies perseverance and passion—making her a standout choice for Athlete of the Week.