Former Elks standout returns as coach

ELK INVITATIONAL

When: Saturday, 11:30 a.m.

Where: Centerville High School

Teams: Alter, Anderson, Ansonia, Beavercreek, Centerville, Cin. Country Day, Franklin Monroe, Greenville, Lakota East, Mason, Miamisburg, Northmont, Oak Hills, Piqua, Troy, Worthington Kilbourne.

Centerville gymnastics coach Renee Horcher has done more than walk the walk – she has tucked, tumbled and vaulted as well.

Horcher, formerly Renee Boutilier, donned an Elks leotard from 2004-06, qualifying to the state meet all three seasons either as an individual or with the Centerville team. The University of Dayton graduate is back with the black and gold as the first-year head coach of the Elks.

“I would hope my experience gives me some extra credibility,” Horcher said. “I definitely know what it takes to make it to state.”

But state is still weeks away. For now, the Centerville gymnasts are focusing on clean routines and a good showing at their Elk Invitational. Centerville will host gymnasts from 16 schools on Saturday.

“There’s a lot more pressure because we’re supposed to do well at home,” Centerville senior captain Leah Kessler said. “There will be so many more people you know in the audience and you want to do your best in front of them, so it’s a good pressure.”

The Elks know a thing or two about pressure. Perennially one of the top teams in the area, Centerville lost five gymnasts to graduation and has two seniors on the roster. More than one-third of the 14 team members are freshmen.

On top of their youth, several Centerville gymnasts have already been hampered by injury. Despite their youth and injuries, however, the Elks have finished in the top five in every event.

Kessler has also dealt with injury. She has been diagnosed with tendinitis in her knees. As a result, the 17-year-old is limited to competing in only bars.

“When you’re only doing one event, you feel like you have to be able to do it 150 percent better than anyone else,” Kessler said. “You put all of your energy into it.”

Kessler’s efforts, on and off the bars, have not gone unnoticed.

“Leah, as our captain, is always at practice and is a great role model for our younger gymnasts,” Horcher said. “She works above and beyond at practice and helps to motivate the girls as well. She has really taken on a leadership role this year and I am looking forward to what is to come for the rest of her senior season.”