Summer training is in full swing for Samantha Jerome who has been working beam upgrades. Jerome competed a gainer step-out last season but is looking to add a split jump connection to increase the difficulty. She also has been training side aerials for a single skill D element and switch leap to straddle jump ½ connection, increasing her difficulty compared to last season’s dance elements. Jerome shows to be a promising recruit with her skill progression on beam and added consistency across all four events.

At camp 2, Samantha showed a wide range of high level skills across the four events. Her technique was confident and precise, which stood out on beam and floor. I noticed impressive extension on leaps and jumps with many of her dance elements containing 180 degree splits or straddles. Samantha did a great job on floor as well, exposing her natural ability to show control and strong landings in her tumbling.