Feared to Never Walk Again, Cecile Landi Sends Powerful Message to Georgia Gymnast Amidst NCAA Season

Georgia Gymnastics kicked off their season in an exciting fashion this year. The program featured Simone Biles as a special guest on the opening day and a full crowd to enhance the experience. Moreover, this season marks the addition of Cecile Landi, the US Hall of Fame coach, taking on the role of the co-head coach—a development that seemed improbable just a few months ago! Joining Cecile is Ryan Roberts, known for his extensive expertise in NCAA gymnastics and the Georgia program. Such a starry presence did several things. Following the season opener, fans had high expectations from the program. But things have been on a distinct line lately. 

The current record stands at 2-3. Additionally, on January 24, the Florida Gators dealt the program a significant defeat. So what’s next? Are there any undisclosed strategies to change the outcome in the upcoming days? Cecile Landi may have one. The co-head coach has recently expressed elation regarding an individual’s positive news. Is she pinning her hope on this person?

Cecile Landi gives gymnast the warmest welcome

On January 29, Georgia Gymnastics co-head coach, Ryan Roberts, shared a clip on Instagram. It featured a gymnast practicing on the vault table in the gym. Who was she? Well, Roberts’ post claimed it to be Nicole King. Yes, the 5’5” Johns Creek native who came under the grip of a fatal injury two years ago. However, Roberts’ post confirmed her to be in full health now. Moreover, her prowess on the vault is enough evidence of her optimal health. Meanwhile, Cecile Landi jumped onto the scene. The co-head coach uniquely welcomed the junior gymnast. 

Cecile reshared Ryan Roberts’ post on her Instagram story and expressed her excitement at Nicole’s return: “YES!!!!” What better comeback could she have hoped for after two years away? That is certainly not up for debate! King has some phenomenal numbers on her resume. Before her career-threatening ankle injury at LSU in 2023, she scored a season-high 9.775 on the vault and 9.825 on her floor routine. Her fireworks brought her a few honors subsequently. 

In 2023, Nicole King featured the First-Year SEC Academic Honor Roll and the J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics fall and spring honor rolls. As a sophomore, King didn’t show up on the mat because of her injury. She was nonetheless named in the WCGA Scholastic All-America Honors. Those are all about the numbers. But there’s more. She has something in her character, that has earned her flowers from a golf coach. And what is that? 

Nicole King’s admirable commitment and strength

Two years ago, Nicole King faced a setback while attempting a vault in the college gymnastics duel against the LSU Tigers. The then-freshman did not hope to make a rapid comeback on the mat after that incident. There were other factors too that could have dragged her down, but she emerged stronger than them and made a resounding comeback. No injury is too bad with eyes set on the goal. Here’s how Nicole King proved her strength and grit.

Last year, on February 2, Nicole shared a long note on Instagram to share her updates with her fans and well-wishers. The post displayed her limping, applying less force to her swollen right leg. She didn’t have much balance on the floor. But things were looking brighter. Meanwhile, her post read, “One year ago today i was told i may never be able to do gymnastics again. i am beyond thankful that this injury did not stop me from doing what i love the most with the people i love most.” During her darkest times, she had enough naysayers. But she didn’t pay any heed. Her determination plays a huge role in her journey to the zenith. 

In Ryan Roberts’ Instagram post, a similar sentiment echoed. His notable lines went on: “Today, she has shown to never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. If you put your mind to it, you can overcome!” Not only he or Cecile Landi, but another Georgia coach also came forward to celebrate Nicole King’s passion and commitment. 

Erika Brennan, University of Georgia women’s golf coach, left a comment under Roberts’ post, “Love that you see the greatness in each of your student-athletes and champion the heck outta them at every turn! Let’s goooo.” Nicole’s teammates, like Nyla Aquinno and Holly Snyder, poured their emotions into the comments as well. Was Cecile Landi looking forward to having such a motivating character to warm up the squad? Well, she has one now.