Laura, 17, talks about what it feels like to be dismissed – trains over 20 hours a week
Laura Seppä, a 17-year-old gymnast, expresses her feelings about being belittled in her sport while dedicating over 20 hours a week to training.
Laura Seppä, a 17-year-old gymnast, narrates her intense dedication to the sport, having invested thousands of hours into training since the age of three. Recently, she faced dismissal from a public figure who referred to group rhythmic gymnastics as 'nonsense', sparking outrage and controversy within the community. The comments led to a public apology from the journalist, highlighting the importance of recognition and respect for all sports.
In the article, Laura and fellow gymnast Enni discuss the rigorous demands of their discipline, emphasizing the hard work and grit required to excel. They detail the number of hours spent training, which often goes unnoticed by the general public. The piece sheds light on the need for greater appreciation of athletes in less mainstream sports, including the physical and mental challenges they endure.
This story is significant as it raises awareness of how verbal dismissals can affect young athletes and serves as a reminder of the importance of respect in sports. It emphasizes the role of media in shaping public perception and the responsibility they hold in portraying all forms of athleticism fairly. Laura's experience also inspires dialogue on the societal need to support and uplift all athletes, regardless of the popularity of their sport.