Entering her third season with the program, Gym Devil junior Justine Callis looks to build on a strong sophomore campaign that saw her garner successes in and out of the gym. A Pac-12 All-Academic honorable mention in 2017, Callis competed on floor and beam for the Gym Devils, notably recording career-highs of 9.850 and 9.800, in the respective events. We touch base with the Chesapeake, Va. native, as she prepares for the impending 2018 season...
What are you most looking forward to this upcoming season?
I am most looking forward to having a breakout season as a team and also individually. We look stellar in the gym, now it's all about performing like we train. We have worked so hard the past seven months and I cannot wait to see it come to fruition in just a few weeks.
What are your team goals you look to achieve for the upcoming season?
My team goals include beating the team down south (again), being a legitimate PAC-12 contender, and qualifying to Regionals. This team is full of talent and potential. We have worked so hard on our details and performance under pressure, now it's all about getting out there and really giving our fans and the gymnastics community a good time watching us take ahold of this 2018 season.
What are your expectations for the team this upcoming season?
My expectations for this team in the upcoming season are really all about showing everyone that we have something to prove. I expect myself and my teammates to deliver under pressure, trust one another, and just be ourselves. If we can do that, be ourselves, our potential is unreal.
What was your favorite memory from this past summer?
My favorite memory from Summer 2017 is definitely the birth of my new nephew, Braxton. I am so overjoyed to be an aunt for the first time. I have already bought him multiple ASU outfits! I plan on this little guy being a Sun Devil just like his aunt!
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I want to travel to so many places around the world! Italy, Fiji, Alaska, Austria, Russia, Australia… my list could go on! However, if I had to pick just one place to travel right in this moment, I would have to say home to Virginia. There's nothing like being around family!
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Ten years from now I see myself joyfully immersed in my faith, enjoying my professional career, with a beautiful marriage, a puppy, and maybe even a little, future Sun devil of our own. In ten years I aspire to be living anything but a mediocre life! In ten years I will also be watching my alma mater win a National Championship in Women's Gymnastics.
What sparked your love for gymnastics?
Growing up I really aspired to be like my mother and my sister. Having come from a family of gymnastics lovers, I fell in love with the sport at a very young age. There's nothing like being a part of something that you know God gifted you as not only a talent but an avenue to learn, grow, and have fun.
Other than Gymnastics, what are you passionate for?
I am passionate about my faith above all else in my life. My parents, siblings, and nephew are very dear to my heart as well. I am passionate about my education, my goals, and trying to improve who I am as a person a little each day.
Outside of school work and practice, what do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I am a part of Arizona State's Fellowships of Christian Athletes. I enjoy photography, dance, Sign Language, going to the beach, and spending time with my loved ones.
If were given a million dollars, what would be your first purchase?
If I were given a million dollars I would give a significant amount to my High School, Oaktree Academy, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. I would also donate a lot to my wonderful church in Phoenix, Dream City Church. I would then buy my parents a house on the beach, then definitely buy them whatever they wanted, start a college fund for my nieces and nephews, find a Military Veteran non-profit to donate to, buy a new car, and save/invest the rest. I have clearly thought of this scenario before! I'll keep my fingers crossed!