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Embracing a New Era: Maile'ana Kanewa-Hermelyn's Vision for Michigan Gymnastics
As Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn stands at the helm of Michigan Women’s Gymnastics, she represents more than just a shift in leadership; she embodies a fresh spirit and renewed energy that is redefining the program. After seven formative years shaping the Wolverines from the sidelines, Kanewa-Hermelyn was appointed as the seventh head coach in program history on July 16, 2025. This new chapter offers her a blank canvas, inviting a unique blend of innovation amidst the legacy established by her predecessor, Bev Plocki.
A Foundation Built on Resilience and Authenticity
Kanewa-Hermelyn’s journey is distinguished not only by her impressive resume but also by her remarkable resilience. A former gymnast at Oklahoma, she won national championships and garnered numerous accolades. But it was her perseverance through a career-threatening medical condition early in her college career that shaped her profound understanding of teamwork and coaching. After receiving a diagnosis that could have sidelined her indefinitely, Kanewa-Hermelyn turned to coaching as a means of staying connected to the sport. “Every day was a lesson in growth,” she recalls. Her love for coaching burgeoned, ultimately leading her to the assistant role and now to the head coach position.
A Coaching Philosophy Rooted in Community
Kanewa-Hermelyn’s leadership style breaks away from traditional hierarchies—favoring a community-driven approach that fosters growth among athletes. She emphasizes the importance of fostering relationships, as seen in her commitment to holding monthly one-on-one meetings with each gymnast. This strategy cultivates an environment where feedback flows freely, and each athlete feels valued and inspired. This season, she emphasizes the collective strength of the team rather than spotlighting individual performances. “One person can’t win a championship; everybody has to believe,” she often reminds her athletes.
Team Culture: More Than Just Wins
Cultivating a positive and cohesive team culture extends beyond training regimen and scores. Kanewa-Hermelyn showcases this philosophy through team retreats that encourage building interpersonal relationships. Following a weekend of bonding, many athletes expressed a genuine desire to spend more time together—an indication of a thriving culture that Kanewa-Hermelyn prioritizes. “When they genuinely want to spend time together, that’s success,” she asserts, emphasizing that creating future leaders is as crucial as competitive achievements.
Creating Future Leaders through Gymnastics
The coach’s vision extends far beyond the gymnastics floor. Kanewa-Hermelyn aspires to develop not only formidable athletes but also resilient individuals ready for any challenges that await them. This emphasis on personal development resonates strongly in today’s intense competitive landscape. She argues that the moments outside of competition—team laughter, individual victories, and shared struggles—lay the groundwork for remarkable leaders.
Fostering Growth in Times of Uncertainty
As the Wolverines embark on their 2026 season, Kanewa-Hermelyn focuses on nurturing growth amidst the uncertainties typical of collegiate sports. With a strong blend of veterans and eager newcomers, she stresses the importance of embracing discomfort as a pathway to success. The season may not yield a perfect record, but Kanewa-Hermelyn’s commitment to growth—both personally and as a team—is unwavering. Her positive, energetic outlook reassures her athletes that every experience, regardless of immediate outcomes, is valuable in shaping their journey.
The Road Ahead: A Story Yet to Be Written
As the story unfolds for Michigan gymnastics under Kanewa-Hermelyn's leadership, the excitement is palpable. With each practice and competition, the ethos she promotes can transform the team dynamic and the culture of the program. “It’s a blank canvas,” she emphasizes. Her philosophy dictates that it is not solely about the accolades, but the legacy of trust, joy, and relentless growth that she endeavors to leave behind.
In this evolving narrative, it becomes clear that Michigan gymnastics is not just chasing victories; they are building a community, fostering personal development, and creating a legacy that will resonate far beyond the gym. And if Kanewa-Hermelyn's infectious belief in her team continues to thrive, the Wolverines are poised not just for wins but for significant growth and transformation.
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