Osman Healing, Taking Advantage of Every Presented Opportunity
2/27/2020 12:09:00 PM | Women's Gymnastics, Features
When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. That is the attitude University of Michigan women's gymnastics team senior Maddy Osman has had while her season hasn't gone as she had hoped.
Osman suffered a broken bone in her neck less than two weeks before the season opener. She could have called it quits, or she could have shifted her focus to academics. However, as a senior captain she opted to be a positive voice in the gym.
"I decided to give as much as I can with my voice," said Osman. "When I got hurt, I knew my role as a captain would change because I was no longer in my teammates' shoes competing. Being able to connect with your teammates is really important as a captain."
She started observing her teammates more in the gym to see how they were all feeling by their body language or what they were saying. That has translated to meet day, where she focuses on building her teammates up and talking to them before they compete, especially on floor exercise. She goes up to each competitor before they start their routine and offers words of encouragement or reminds them of the work they put in and the talent they have to put on a show.
"Every message is different depending on what the gymnast's personality is," she said. "The mental part of gymnastics is very important, and I have learned through my time here what people like said to them before they compete."
Osman (left) giving encouragment to teammate Natalie Wojcik
Being a captain is something Osman has cherished this season. She was named co-captain with senior Lexi Funk following the 2019 season. It was a breakout year for Osman as she was in the lineup on three events for much of the season and became an All-American on balance beam as a junior.
Her terrific season was a breath of fresh air after missing the final seven meets of her freshman season after falling in practice, and was out her entire sophomore campaign with a knee injury. She entered her senior season with a renewed passion for the sport.
"I had an incredible year," she said. "I never in a million years thought I would be an All-American on beam, but it happened and it was a dream come true. Our team chemistry was great last year, so it really got me excited for this year. Being named captain was such an honor because it showed that my teammates trusted me and valued my voice and energy and passion for gymnastics."
Three days into practice after returning from the holiday break in December, Osman's legs gave out on the vault board and her hands slipped, causing her to fall awkwardly on her neck. She was scared at the time but all she could think about was hoping and praying that she was going to be able to compete again and represent the Block M.
She is healing well and can spend several hours a day without a neck brace now. Her love for the Block M has not gone away and has guided her to take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself outside of the gym while she is unable to compete.
She has been very involved as a student-athlete from the time she first stepped on campus. She is a community engagement rep for the Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) and frequently visits C.S. Mott Children's Hospital. Last summer she volunteered at North Star Ranch, a camp for kids recovering from cardiac surgeries. She also is a leadership and development ambassador.
After talking to the Michigan Athletics Career Center (MAAC), Osman reached out to Jaclyn Crummey, assistant director of event presentation and fan experience. Crummey is a former student-athlete at Michigan, playing softball from 2010-13, and she talked to Osman about the transition from student-athlete to working in sports. She also offered Osman a position as a fan experience intern.
"I have gained experience working at football, basketball, volleyball, hockey, soccer and a whole bunch of sports," said Osman. "I help with the execution of promotions and timing with announcers, lighting and when the team runs out. I love it because it is hectic but full of energy."
She landed her summer position after a conversation with Michigan baseball director of operations Wayne Welton. He put her in touch with the Detroit Tigers Foundation and she will be working as part of the event staff at home games, helping with raffles and getting individuals on and off the field for recognition. She also will be working with Radrick Farms Golf Course, helping out with special events and working in the pro shop.
Osman appreciates everything Michigan has provided for her in her time on campus.
"I know when I first stepped on campus it felt like home," said Osman. "It has been an incredible experience for me even though I didn't get my full four years of gymnastics. I have learned I am more than an athlete, I am a great person and a strong leader. Michigan focuses on who you are as a person and your future. They want you to be the best version of yourself."
She is ready to lead her team the rest of this season and carry her positive energy and voice into her future career.
Players Mentioned
