Illinois State's Courtney Woods Shares Her NCAA Journey

When Courtney Woods first dreamed of competing in college gymnastics, it wasn't because of rankings or recognition. She has a genuine love of the sport. "I have always wanted to do college gymnastics because of my love for gymnastics and my connection to my faith," Woods shared. "It is a blessing to be healthy and capable in a sport like this, so it has always been a privilege to compete."   That perspective carried Woods from Missouri Valley Gymnastics in Ozark, Missouri, to competing at the University of Missouri from 2022-2025 before transferring to Illinois State for her final seasons while pursuing a master's degree. Along the way, she navigated recruitment during the challenges of COVID-19, overcame a multi-ligament knee injury that cost her sophomore season, and discovered that adaptability and confidence can shape an athlete's path just as much as talent.   The Recruitment Process   Like many gymnasts, Woods remembers the recruitment process feeling intimidating.   "The early stages were confusing and challenging," she said. "It was tough to determine which schools I should look at and where I could see myself. Finding the courage to call coaches and send countless emails was overwhelming."   As she gained experience, especially entering the transfer portal later in her career, recruitment came easier to her. With a better understanding of herself as both an athlete and a student, she found it easier to communicate her priorities and her strengths. A piece of advice she'd give today's recruits is to be confident.   "Looking back to high school, I'd tell my younger self to be more confident in what I have to offer and not be afraid to be a squeaky wheel."   She believes her versatility and attitude helped separate her from other recruits.   "My variety of skills and experience with different coaching techniques helped me stand out," she explained. "I also tried to show my uplifting attitude and appreciation for the sport throughout the recruiting process."   She also credits camps and clinics as a major factor in her success. Attending multiple camps each year gave coaches repeated opportunities to evaluate her skills firsthand, and having a variety of skills on beam and floor that she competed well, along with a unique vault, helped immensely with college coaches actively recruiting.   Her advice to younger gymnasts is don't wait for the coaches to find you.   "Email as much as you can, send regular video updates, and don't be afraid to attend camps and competitions with ambitious goals."   Academics & Choosing the Right Fit   While gymnastics was a huge goal, academics remained a top priority for Woods. She maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA in high school and viewed her academic success as another way to demonstrate discipline and balance to college coaches.   "I wanted to set myself up for success after hanging up the leotard," she said. "Showing coaches that I could excel both in school and in gymnastics was important to me."   Woods took two official visits during her initial recruiting process before committing to Missouri. Being just a couple of hours from home and having a family-oriented feeling, Missouri felt like the right step forward for her. Later, when entering the transfer portal, her priorities evolved.   "I wanted a program that valued my talent and would push my competitive nature," she said. "My connection with the coaching staff at Illinois State and the opportunity to continue growing made it the right fit."   Looking back, she believes many recruits lose sight of their own priorities while trying to impress schools.   "I think people can overlook their own goals and lose track of the values that mean the most to them."   The Realities of NCAA Gymnastics   The jump from club gymnastics to college competition isn't always easy.   "It was intense and overwhelming, but also incredibly exciting," Woods recalled. "Some of my best friendships came from embracing that transition with an open mind."   She also notes that one of the biggest surprises for incoming freshmen is how connected you are in your success with others.   "In club gymnastics, your successes and mistakes remain mostly independent. In college, everything contributes to the team's goals. That's a powerful privilege, because you get to share both the highs and lows with teammates who always have your back."   The busy schedule can also catch recruits off guard.   "We're constantly on the go, balancing athletics, academics, and responsibilities. It seems overwhelming at first, but the leadership skills and ability to multitask become incredibly rewarding."   One of the defining moments of Woods' collegiate career came from an injury. After suffering a multi-ligament knee injury that sidelined her sophomore season, she persevered through rehabilitation and ultimately chose to transfer to Illinois State to maximize her remaining eligibility and pursue a master's degree. The experience reinforced her belief that careers rarely follow a straight line. Growth often comes through unexpected challenges.   Favorite Moments Along the Way   Woods has countless memories, but one of her favorites was competing on the beam for Illinois State at Eastern Michigan. The beam squad had been working hard to put together clean performances as a group, and they were able to effortlessly and effectively hit each routine, leading to the rotation they had been chasing.   "It felt so rewarding to hit my routine after a long week of training and celebrate with my teammates."   Off the competition floor, however, some of her favorite memories are much simpler. Hanging out outside of practice or getting food together, and simply enjoying the bond that comes with being a team. Woods cherishes the memories made with her teammates. From SEC Championship experiences in New Orleans and LSU while at Missouri, to sightseeing during a quad meet trip to Pittsburgh with Illinois State, these times remind her of why she worked so hard to get into college gymnastics.   Advice for Future Recruits   For gymnasts hoping to compete at the next level, Woods encourages persistence, authenticity, and communication.   "Be confident and consistent while showing a positive mindset and being honest about challenges you're facing. Coaches are evaluating you as both a gymnast and a person."   She also recommends asking meaningful questions during campus visits, particularly about coaching philosophies, how staff handle adversity, and what resources are available to help student-athletes balance academics and athletics. Above all, Woods believes the NCAA experience is about much more than gymnastics itself.   "College gymnastics has given me opportunities that only a handful of athletes get to experience. I've found people and programs that will positively influence my life and career long after the sport is over."   If she had to summarize her journey in one word?   Fulfilling.

When Courtney Woods first dreamed of competing in college gymnastics, it wasn't because of rankings or recognition. She has a genuine love of the sport. "I have always wanted to do college gymnastics because of my love for gymnastics and my connection to my faith," Woods shared. "It is a blessing to be healthy and capable in a sport like this, so it has always been a privilege to compete."

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Illinois State’s Courtney Woods Shares Her NCAA Journey

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