Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, Mariel Garcia brings an impressive international résumé to NC State. A member of the Mexican National Team, Garcia won the all-around title at Mexican Nationals four consecutive years from 2021-24. Her success is a testament to her discipline, consistency, and drive to improve year after year—qualities she is excited to bring to the NCAA
From falling in love with the excitement of gymnastics to competing on the world stage, Garcia is no stranger to pressure or what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, she’s looking forward to competing alongside her teammates, continuing to represent Mexico, and chasing one major college gymnastics goal: earning a perfect 10.
Responses have been edited for length and/or clarity
College team:NC State
Hometown:Monterrey, Mexico
How did you first fall in love with gymnastics? Can you remember the moment or feeling that made you realize it was your sport?
I always loved how exciting gymnastics was. I loved learning new skills and trying new things that challenged me
What’s one moment in your gymnastics journey you’ll never forget? Whether it’s a big win or a quiet milestone, what made it special?
Becoming a beam finalist and finishing fourth at my first Pan American Championships as a junior while representing Mexico
What has it meant to represent Mexico in so many international competitions throughout your career?
I’m very grateful and happy to be a part of the Mexican National Team. It’s an honor to represent my country and inspire young girls
Winning the all-around at Mexican nationals from 2021-24 is an incredible stretch! What has helped you stay at that top level year after year?
A lot of discipline and consistency. I’m always looking for ways to improve and become a better gymnast every day
During your college recruiting journey, what about N.C. State sealed the deal for you?
It felt like home from the beginning. Everyone was really nice and welcoming
The NCAA experience is quite different from elite, especially in terms of team culture and performance style. What part of that environment are you most excited—or maybe nervous—to embrace?
I’m really excited to compete as part of a college team. I think the energy and support from teammates is going to be really fun
Do you plan to continue pursuing elite for Mexico while competing in college?
Yes, that’s definitely something I would love to do if I have the opportunity
Who has made the biggest impact on your gymnastics career, and how have they inspired or shaped your journey?
My family. They’ve always been there for me, coming to my meets and supporting me throughout my entire gymnastics journey
Gymnastics is full of highs and lows—what’s one of the toughest challenges you’ve faced in your journey, andhow has overcoming it shaped you as both an athlete and a person?
One of the biggest challenges has been not being able to compete at 100% because of an injury. It taught me to be patient and that one bad competition doesn’t define me as a gymnast
Looking ahead to your college career, what are you most excited to experience—both as a gymnast and in your personal life?
I’m excited to balance gymnastics, school, and college life. I think it’ll help me grow both on and off the gym floor
What’s something on your college gymnastics bucket list?
Getting a perfect 10
Rapid Fire Questions
Vault, bars, beam, or floor?Bars
Which four gymnasts would be on your college gymnastics Mount Rushmore?Addison Fatta, Leanne Wong, Jade Carey, and Luisa Blanco
What’s your most-used emoji? ❤️
What’s one of your pre-meet rituals or superstitions?Praying and having my mom do my hair
What’s one of your gymnastics pet peeves?When people think success is just talent instead of years of hard work and discipline
What’s a hidden talent people may not know about?I can switch between English and Spanish without even thinking, and somehow I’ve never had a rip on my hands
What do you want to be when you grow up?A college gymnastics coach
What’s your favorite leotard your college team has worn?This one!
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Article by Courtney Varrichio
