When the news broke that head coach Mark Biseli would be leaving the gymnastics team, the team’s gymnasts were left in despair. After many years with the gymnastics team, Biseli has announced his retirement as the head coach. Lots of gymnasts have mixed feelings about him leaving.

Sophomore Taylor Knepper has spent the past two seasons under Biseli’s guidance, while senior Emma Bettwy has been coached by him for all four years of her high school gymnastics career. 

“It’s really sad to know that he’s leaving, but he said that he’s still going to help out sometimes,” Knepper said. 

“I am upset that Coach Biseli is leaving, but I am so blessed I got to have him as my coach these past four years,” Bettwy said. 

For many gymnasts, it’s not just about losing a coach, it’s about saying goodbye to someone who has helped shape both their confidence and discipline. 

“Coach Biseli helped me grow as a gymnast and a person because he showed me not everyday is going to be perfect, but you can’t let that take over who you are,” Bettwy said. 

“I think he has helped me grow as a person by always being understanding and always giving good advice,” Knepper said. 

Biseli’s impact stretched beyond technique. From funny moments at meets to serious talks during tough times, the gymnasts say his support has helped shape who they are today. 

“Coach Biseli is a coach that believes in you and makes the season overall fun,” Knepper said. 

“He was always there for me, so that allowed me to not be as hard on myself,” freshman Taylor Lear said. 

According to athletic director Phil Riccio, it is unknown who will coach the team next year.

“The hardest part about him leaving is that the gymnasts that are still there won’t have the same experiences as when he was there, but he has left them with great advice that they can use,” Bettwy said.