In our new series Inside Their World, we're putting some of your favorite gymnasts in the spotlight and giving you a look at their likes and dislikes, goals, dreams, and so much more. Today we are featuring Lindenwood senior Rachel Zabawa. Zabawa has been a strong force for the Lions throughout her career and was a USA Gymnastics first-team All-American on the vault last season as well as a MIC Scholar-Athlete. In her final year, Zabawa will help lead Lindenwood to a stellar 2016 season.

FloGymnastics: What do you love most about gymnastics?
Rachel Zabawa: I love the competitiveness and drive the sport gives you.

Did you play any other sports growing up?
I played soccer until the sixth grade. I had to quit because it was too hard to do both soccer and gymnastics.

If you had to switch to a different sport right now, which would you choose?
I would play soccer again. My entire family played soccer in college except for me.

What do you like to eat before a competition?
I like to eat a sandwich or a salad before a meet. I do not care which one it is, but I prefer one of those two. 

What is your favorite movie?
My all-time favorite movie is A Walk to Remember. 

Name one person who has had a huge impact on your involvement in gymnastics and how that person is connected to you.
My parents have had a huge impact on me in the sport of gymnastics. They have been with me through everything I have gone through. They never gave up on me and have always pushed me to be the best person, teammate, and gymnast I can be. 

What is your favorite thing to do in your free time to relax?
I love to watch movies and be with my friends during my relaxing time.

What is the biggest sacrifice you have made to be in gymnastics?
Moving far away from my family to continue my college gymnastics career was the biggest sacrifice I have had to make in gymnastics. 

List one goal you have for the next one month, year, or five years.
One goal I have within the next year is to have a full time job in a Recreation Department.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a recreation specialist or be a college gymnastics coach. 

WhatÂ’s you favorite event and why?
My favorite event is floor. I love to be able to tumble high and I like being able to put my own fun personality into my routine. 

What's your favorite ice cream flavor?
Mint Chocolate Chip 

How old were you when you started gymnastics and how did you get involved?
I was 3 years old when I started gymnastics. I got involved because my mom decided to put me in it because I had too much energy. 

What keeps you motivated in the gym?
My family and teammates keep me motivated. They push me to be the best I can be.

What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas is my favorite holiday because it is the one holiday that my entire family can be at.


Related:
The Rise Of Lindenwood Gymnastics