#009 The Comeback Strategy: Injury, Faith, and Finding the Right Fit with Alexis Hope

Injuries are part of the game in gymnastics, but for Alexis Hope, the journey has been more of a marathon than a sprint. After battling through elbow surgery, foot surgery, and a transfer process all before the age of 20, Alexis shared with us how she’s navigating a gap year and preparing for a massive comeback at the NCAA level.

If you’re a gymnast currently sidelined by injury or feeling overwhelmed by the recruiting process, Alexis’s story is exactly what you need to hear.

Facing the "Double Whammy" of Injuries

Imagine the heartbreak of a 98% UCL tear on your favorite event. That was Alexis’s reality on Vault during her first year of college gymnastics.

"It was definitely heartbreaking," she says. "It was a long recovery process... very painful and mentally draining." Just as she fought her way back, a foot injury required a second surgery during her sophomore year.

The Lesson: Recovery isn't just physical. Alexis found that getting back on Vault wasn't about the strength in her arm, it was about overcoming the fear that her body wasn't ready. If you’re coming back from an injury, remember that patience is a skill just as much as a double back is.

Leading with Faith and Purpose

When you're facing your third surgery before your 20th birthday, it’s natural to ask: Is this still for me? For Alexis, the answer came through leaning on her faith.

"I let my faith take over. I was just like, ‘God, please help me.’ I felt like I could go either way, but I love the sport."

By asking God for direction, Alexis found a new sense of peace. She realized she wasn't done yet. This mental shift didn't just help her recovery; it changed how she showed up in the gym. She transitioned from being "the frustrated athlete" to a "big sister" and mentor for her teammates, leading by action rather than just words.

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Round Two: Tips for the Recruiting Process

Alexis is currently in the "Round 2" of recruiting, eyeing the perfect team to return to for Fall 2026. Having been through the process once before, she has some golden advice for those of you looking at college programs:

1. Look Beyond the Leotard: "Take away the team, take away the coaches. Look at the area and the school. If you were just a normal student, would you like it there?"

2. Education is 50% of the Deal: Your training hours in college are often lower than in club. You need to be in a place where your career path is supported.

3. Don't Settle: Don't just jump at the first offer. Explore your options to ensure the environment matches your values.

The "Watch This" Mentality

Alexis isn't just returning to her old self; she’s upgrading. She’s currently training a brand-new bar routine and vaulting again. "I use the drive from people basically praying on my downfall," she laughs. "I’m like, ‘Okay, watch this.’"

At Wolf Wear, we love a good comeback story. Whether you’re training in your home gym or competing on the big stage, remember that your setbacks are often just setups for your best season yet.

Are you working on your own comeback? We want to help you feel confident on the bars. Check out our collection of grips and find the pair that supports your next big upgrade!