Gotlund, Mirski not afraid to aim high

Warren senior Kim Gotlund is back and plans on getting back to state.

Same goes for Carmel senior Amber Mirski.

Both Gotlund and Mirski have the potential to return to the state gymnastics meet in February based on their experience, ability and willingness to put in countless hours in the gym.

Gotlund returns to high school competition after competing club last winter. She recently signed a national letter of intent with Northern Illinois University.

"I took last year off and got skills for college," Gotlund said. "I went to visit NIU and really liked it. My brother (Erik) and his wife (Sara) went there. I also went to a football game and even saw some gymnastics meets.

"I've talked with the team and the coaches and it's a good fit for gymnastics and for school."

Gotlund finished second at state in the all-around as a sophomore for the Blue Devils. She'll be counted on heavily this season.

"Gotlund is expected to be our top performer," said Warren coach Christy Worth, who also attended NIU and competed as a cheerleader. "She motivates herself and others with great leadership and strength in what she does."

Mirski competed in the all-around at state last season, although she did not medal. She's focused of building on last season's success.

"I just want to be one of the top gymnasts this year," said Mirski, who hopes to compete in college next year. "I want to be strong in the all-around."

She understands that there's a lot of work to be done between now and February.

"We work a lot on pressure sets," Mirski said. "It's like having people watching similar to a state meet. You just try to put thoughts in your head of being perfect. You run it through your mind and hope the body (follows). It's not as easy as it sounds."

Mirski would like to see the Corsairs secure a state trophy after finishing fifth last season.

Carmel coach Sarah Doyle knows she has a leader in her veteran gymnast.

"Mirski is a classic, solid gymnast," Doyle said. "She doesn't have the crazy-eye drilling skills. She's just a solid competitor and leader. She leads by her work ethic and gets past her weaknesses."

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