By Sam Bernardi | Posted October 8, 2025
The Montgomery gymnastics team started the season with only two healthy gymnasts. One of them — Shriya Desai — is a junior who has competed in the sport for more than a decade.
Ultimately, the Cougars were able to field a competition team with many gymnastics newcomers. Desai has taken pride in developing their skills and mentoring them through the sport’s physical and mental demands.
MHS gymnast Shriya Desai in action.
MHS Coach Sam Nowak said. “Shriya has really fallen into the role of a leader and has grown so much. I’ve never seen her this happy at gymnastics.”
Even after suffering a partial tear in her ACL at Montgomery’s first meet of the season, Shriya has handled the news with the utmost positivity.
“It’s just kind of hard because I love being active,” Desai said. “So, it’s hard not being able to do those things. But, I am hoping that I can try to come back for the end of the season because I think this year is [pivotal], especially with the new team.”
Each month, Montgomery High School Athletic Director Kris Grundy polls local coaches to select a female and male scholar athlete to spotlight in The Montgomery News. Each Athlete of the Month will receive a $25 Gift Certificate to The Tiger’s Tale.
Coach Nowak says she is impressed with the instant chemistry and camaraderie of this team. Despite the varying athletic backgrounds, they have found continuity in gymnastics.
Desai's new responsibilities as a team leader have been instrumental in shedding her previously shy, anxious shell surrounding gymnastics. Unlike the rigorous demands of her club team, she said she enjoys the fun nature of this young Cougars squad.
Coach Nowak says, “I think being a positive role model has naturally fallen into place for her. It’s impacting her as well in terms of not being so much in her head, and understanding this is a place that she should enjoy and not be so stressed out all the time.
MHS gymnast Shriya Desai doing a handstand on the uneven bars.
“She’s teaching everyone, she’s helping spot everyone… they just trust her so much and they respect her.” ■
