Meet MyKayla Skinner's Parents: Cris and Kym Skinner

By Jayson Panganiban September 06, 2024 10:00

Photo by Getty Images

American gymnast MyKayla Skinner has made headlines through her stunning performances, capped by a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her success story is supported by her parents, Cris and Kym Skinner, who have been instrumental in her journey. This article mentions Cris and Kym in relation to MyKayla's upbringing, career trajectory as a gymnast, and the sacrifices they have made for her success.

About Cris & Kym Skinner

Early Life and Upbringing

Cris and Kym Skinner are from Gilbert, Arizona, where they live with their family. The values and determination that have been passed down from them are something MyKayla says plays a huge factor in her success. Kym and Cris have both been active in their community, always stressing the significance of family and faith.

Family Dynamics

The family has always been close, led by Cris and Kym, who encourage a sense of community. Mykayla's sense of family is something she carries with her, some great scaffolding that has given her the courage and confidence to reach for what seems like anything.

MyKayla's Life, Career and Roles

Support and Encouragement

MyKayla's parents were her biggest supporters during gymnastics. They have driven her to 5 a.m. practices and attended every single meet, including the State Meet, LC and JO's, and everything in between, just because she loves it. Their continued support has been instrumental in helping MyKayla find her way through the rigors of elite gymnastics.

Guidance and Mentorship

Cris and Kym have also coached MyKayla, as they extolled her to aim high and work hard for what she wanted as a young lady. This belief in her potential has been the defining morsel that kept her returning season after season.

What MyKayla Brought to the Table

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Tactical and Financial Assistance

A gymnast of MyKayla's caliber is resource-heavy to support. Cris and Kym have sacrificed so much for MyKayla to get the best coaching and facilities. You see it in their dedication to ensure she is set up for success, even if that means footing the bill on her behalf.

Emotional Resilience

Becoming an Olympic gymnast is a road filled with obstacles, and MyKayla has had her setbacks. Cris and Kym have coached her on how to be emotionally tough, resilient in the face of challenge, deeply independent, yet forever optimistic.

Conclusion and Impactful Anecdotes

Inspiration from Siblings

Her action to become a gymnast was inspired by her sisters, Chelsea and Katie, who were outspoken in the sport. MyKayla was inspired by watching her sisters train, and that is something she has been able to hold onto since a young age due to her supportive parents. They are the ones who, she says, inspired her career largely because of that family experience.

MyKayla Skinner's journey as a gymnast has deeply involved Cris and Kym Skinner. It's because of their unwavering support, guidance, and sacrifices that MyKayla has reached the highest level in her sport. As parents, they have not just developed her remarkable skill but also imbued in her the values and stamina that are required to survive gymnastics at the highest level. As a result of their impact, MyKayla is the top gymnast she has become today.