New role gives Nebraska gymnast Sam Phillips new perspective on leadership

In a markedly uncommon move, Nebraska’s Sam Phillips has recently assumed a new role of leadership with the Cornhuskers gymnastics team. This transition has not only provided the athlete with a fresh outlook on their own athletic career, but has also given them an opportunity to contribute to the team in a different capacity.

Phillips, a four-year veteran of the Cornhuskers program, has been appointed as the team’s student assistant coach, a position that is both unprecedented and somewhat unconventional. In this role, Phillips will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, ranging from assisting the coaching staff in practice to leading the team in pre-meet rituals.

The gymnast’s transition to a more administrative role has been a significant one, and has given Phillips a unique perspective on the sport.

“I think this experience is going to be really beneficial for me,” Phillips said. “It’s a completely different way of looking at the sport, and it’s given me a deeper understanding of the coaching side of things. It’s been really eye-opening and I’m looking forward to seeing what else I can learn.”

Phillips has also found that her new role has helped her to better appreciate her own athletic career.

“I’ve had a different appreciation for the sport since I’ve been coaching,” she said. “I know it’s been my passion for a long time, but now I can really see the value in it. It’s been humbling to see what the sport can do for people.”

The gymnast’s transition to a coaching role has been a successful one, and her presence on the team has been well-received. Phillips’ new position has not only enabled her to become more involved with the team, but has also enabled her to gain invaluable insight into the sport of gymnastics.