Senior co-captains Ava Shadwell and Daniella Diaz are more than just standout athletes—they’re the guiding voices behind Randolph Gymnastics. Together, the seasoned athletes have shaped a tightly knit, motivated team of gymnasts whose bonds stretch well beyond the balance beam, mat and gym.

“I had tried nearly every sport I could, but gymnastics was the one that stood out the most,” Diaz recalled. While other activities came and went, her devotion to gymnastics quickly grew.

For Shadwell, gymnastics has always been more than just a sport—it has been a community. “I stuck with gymnastics because I love the sport and its taught me a lot of lessons,” she said. “I also met a lot of my close friends and amazing coaches through it.”

Now in their final season, the co-captains have stepped into true leadership roles, guiding the Randolph gymnastics team with dedication and heart. Together, the two balance determination with encouragement, setting the tone for younger teammates and ensuring that everyone contributes to and feels welcomed in the program’s positive culture.

“They work so great together and know what my expectations are of the program,” Head Coach Susan Falleni said.

Explained Shadwell, “I try to lead by keeping a positive attitude and always trying my hardest, hoping it encourages my teammates to do the same.”

“What makes them strong captains is they are always on top of everything and are communicating well, which sets a good example for the rest of the team,” sophomore Juliette Crisafulli said.

While the team currently holds a 3-6 record, the Randolph Gymnastics season is about more than the scores on the board, it’s also about the bond among teammates that Shadwell and Diaz have helped build. As co-captains, they’ve also set a standard of grit and hard work that makes every practice and meet something the entire team can look forward to.