A Fraction of a Point: A Gymnastics Dynasty on the Line

ISBN: 1606355074

Author: Mandell, Nina

Condition: New

When the Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School gymnastics team competes in the Ohio High School Athletic Association state gymnastics meet, theyre expected to win. Thats because theyve won each year--since 2004. And as the streak builds, theres more pressure each year on the public schools team to continue that tradition. No year was more tense than the year that they were hoping to take home their 20th straight title.A Fraction of a Point follows the Bees throughout the intense 2022-2023 season as the team works toward the state meet. During one of their most competitive seasons in recent years, sports journalist Nina Mandell explores the gymnasts backstories and traces the legacy of the Ganim family, the teams longtime coaches. Initially led by husband and wife Joan and Ron Ganim, their daughter, Maria Schneider, then became coach. In a sport that has been plagued by scandal-especially for the mistreatment of athletes-the Ganims represent a changing face of gymnastics by emphasizing their players well-being and mental health.Throughout A Fraction of a Point, the players and coaches frequently question if theyre good enough to keep the winning streak alive and if the gymnasts will be able to rise to the challenge. But this isnt just a story about one historic season. At its heart, its also about the teenagers balancing athletics with high school life, the larger community that supported the team, what it means to compete for the joy of the sport, and the athletes and coaches dedication even while facing immense pressure. Ultimately, the state title comes down to the final event. As the Bees line up to compete, the gym falls silent. Hundreds of gymnasts and their supporters from around the state watch and wonder: Will the Bees maintain their streak? Or will this be the year it all ends?