Rising Star Spotlight: Gabrielle “Gabby” Clayborn – A Multi-Sport Powerhouse at Carson Middle School

Gabrielle “Gabby” Clayborn, a 12-year-old student at Carson Middle School, is taking the Colorado Springs sports scene by storm with her diverse athletic talents and relentless determination. With a resume that includes competitive gymnastics, softball, flag football, cheerleading, and wrestling, Gabby embodies the versatility, skill, and dedication it takes to become a standout athlete. Not only does she excel in sports, but she also shines academically, maintains a strong work ethic, and actively serves her community.

Gabby’s athletic journey began at a young age and has only grown from there. From Kinetic Gymnastics to her role as a flag football star in the Colorado Springs NFL Flag Football league, Gabby has consistently demonstrated her adaptability and tenacity across various sports:

• Gymnastics: Gabby trained at Kinetic Gymnastics, where she developed her foundational strength, agility, and body control, all of which have been assets in her other sports.

• Softball: As a member of the HEAT 10U in Colorado Springs Little League, she gained valuable teamwork experience, honing her focus and reaction time.

• Flag Football: Gabby’s passion and talent for flag football have been remarkable. From playing in the Briargate YMCA Division to competing in Russell Wilson’s NFL Flag Football, she has consistently proven herself as a dominant force on the field, leveraging her speed, precision, and exceptional blitzing techniques.

• Cheerleading: Gabby’s cheerleading journey began in Tennessee and continued through Weikle Elementary in Colorado. Cheer has taught her valuable lessons in balance, coordination, and rhythm.

• Wrestling: Now wrestling for Carson Middle School, Gabby has quickly become a formidable opponent. Her strength, strategy, and finishing ability allow her to dominate matches, often wearing down her opponents through her relentless approach.

Gabby’s success has been underscored by her 2024 achievements, where she helped lead her 11U flag football team to league, state, and regional championships. Her commitment and natural talent have not only garnered attention locally but have also set her on a path of promising potential in each sport.

Gabby possesses a unique blend of skills that make her a standout in each sport she plays:

• Football Skills: Known for her lightning-fast speed, Gabby is a defensive powerhouse with precise blitzing techniques and a knack for reading the offense. Her football IQ is high, allowing her to anticipate plays and execute her moves with skill and agility.

• Wrestling Skills: On the mat, Gabby’s strength and tactical approach enable her to overcome her opponents. She’s skilled in escaping holds, breaking away from potential pins, and finishing her matches with stamina, often outlasting her opponents to secure victory.