As the SEMO Summer Games 2024 approach, excitement builds around the exceptional talent set to compete this year. From record-breaking newcomers to comeback stories that inspire, this year’s games will showcase athletic prowess at its finest. Here’s our spotlight on five rising stars you won’t want to miss during this year’s competition.

Jordan Reynolds - Track & Field

At just 19 years old, Jordan Reynolds has already made waves in the regional track circuit with an impressive 10.2-second 100-meter dash last season. After narrowly missing qualification for national competition last year, Reynolds has been training with renewed determination.

“The SEMO Games are my chance to prove I belong at the next level,” Reynolds shared during a recent training session. “I’ve shaved nearly two-tenths off my time since last summer, and I’m not done yet.”

Reynolds’ coach, former Olympic qualifier Marcus Tanner, believes we haven’t seen the best yet: “Jordan has the rare combination of natural speed and technical precision. When those two elements click perfectly—which I believe will happen at SEMO—records fall.”

Mia Chen - Gymnastics

Following a stunning performance at the State Championships where she scored a near-perfect 9.85 on balance beam, Mia Chen enters the SEMO Games as the gymnast to beat. The 17-year-old has added two high-difficulty elements to her routine since last season, pushing the technical scoring potential beyond what the competition has seen.

“Gymnastics is constantly evolving,” Chen explains. “What won medals yesterday won’t be enough tomorrow. I’m focused on clean execution while pushing boundaries with difficulty.”

Chen’s floor routine, set to an original composition that honors her Chinese-American heritage, has become a fan favorite and is expected to be a highlight of the gymnastics competition.

Diego Morales - Swimming

After recovering from a shoulder injury that sidelined him for most of 2023, Diego Morales has returned to the pool stronger than ever. His recent qualifying time in the 200-meter butterfly not only secured his spot at SEMO but came within half a second of the regional record.

“The time away from competition gave me perspective,” Morales reflects. “I rebuilt my stroke mechanics from scratch, focusing on efficiency. The result is less strain on my shoulder and, surprisingly, faster times.”

Morales’ coach notes that his improved underwater technique could be the difference-maker this year: “Diego is staying submerged longer after turns, and his dolphin kicks have become a weapon. Watch for him to make his move in the second half of races when others fatigue.”

Aisha Washington - Basketball

Leading her high school team to the state championship with an average of 22.5 points per game, point guard Aisha Washington has established herself as a dominant force on the court. Her court vision and passing ability have drawn attention from college scouts across the country.

“What separates Aisha is her basketball IQ,” says her coach, Terri Williams. “She processes the game at a different speed than most players her age. She’s not just executing plays—she’s creating opportunities nobody else sees.”

Washington’s three-point percentage improved from 32% to 41% this season, adding another dimension to her already impressive offensive arsenal. The SEMO Games will be her first appearance on the national stage.

Ethan Park - Wrestling

After finishing second in last year’s SEMO Games, wrestler Ethan Park has been on a mission. Competing in the 74kg weight class, Park has remained undefeated this season, with an astonishing 85% of his victories coming by pin.

“Last year’s silver medal stays in my gym bag,” Park says. “It’s the first thing I see when I start training and the last thing I see before I leave. It’s motivation.”

Park’s strength conditioning coach has noted significant improvements in both his explosive power and endurance—attributes that become crucial in the later rounds of tournament competition.

What Makes These Athletes Special

What these five athletes share is not just exceptional talent but also the mental fortitude that separates contenders from champions. Each has overcome setbacks, refined their approach, and committed to excellence beyond medals and recognition.

As veteran SEMO coach Diana Foster observes: “Natural ability gets you to the games. Character determines who leaves with gold. These young athletes have both.”

Catch Them in Action

The SEMO Summer Games 2024 will provide multiple opportunities to see these rising stars compete:

• Opening ceremonies: June 10, 2024

• Track & Field events: June 12-16, 2024

• Swimming competitions: June 13-18, 2024

• Gymnastics: June 15-19, 2024

• Basketball tournament: June 17-24, 2024

• Wrestling matches: June 20-23, 2024

Check the official SEMO schedule for specific times and venues. Tickets are available through our website or at the venue box offices.

Will these rising stars live up to expectations? Which unexpected talents will emerge? The beauty of the SEMO Games lies in these questions—and in the inspiring answers our athletes provide through their performances.