Oct. 2, 2012
IOWA CITY, Iowa — Former Gymhawk Jessa Hansen sits down with the senior vault anchor, Maya Wickus. In 2012, Wickus competed on vault in every competition, winning the vault title against Iowa State. The Port Washington, Wis., native made her debut on bars at Denver, marking a career-best of 9.775. Wickus tied for 10th on vault at the Big Ten Championships with a 9.875.
What led you to the University of Iowa and its gymnastics program?
“I was drawn to the emphasis Iowa put on academics, and I enjoy the Hawkeye spirit each and every day.”
What is your favorite place to be in Iowa City?
“The Pentacrest. I love to go there and study. It represents our beautiful campus, and I enjoy watching the other students.”
What is your favorite movie?
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Audrey Hepburn is one of my role models because she was an iconic, strong, and independent woman in history. I enjoy her style and stances on most issues at the time. I have idolized her since I was little, and I immediately fell in love with her character “Holly Golightly” from Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Do you have any pre-meet rituals?
“Laughing and dancing with my teammates in the locker room.”
Who is your favorite professional athlete?
“Cam Newton. He was able to make a name for himself in his last year of college. Despite all the negativity surrounding him, he never let it interfere with the game and led his team to the BCS Championship. I continue to follow him and the Carolina Panthers.”
Who is the most influential person in your life?
“My mother. No matter what challenges she faces, she is ready to accept and overcome them.”
What is one place you want to visit?
“Australia, because I enjoy warm weather! I would also love to see the beautiful coral reefs and perhaps a kangaroo or two.”
What are your goals for the 2013 season?
“I want to contribute to the team the entire season, lead the team to our goals and make a difference for Iowa gymnastics this year.”
What kind of music is on your iPod?
“Country music! I would have to say Shania Twain is my favorite singer, but I am currently in love with Luke Bryan. I saw Shania and Big and Rich in concert, but I’d love to see Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, and Zac Brown Band in concert too.”
Do you have superstitions?
“Walking under a ladder. I don’t have a specific reason for this superstition besides what I’ve seen in movies and TV shows. “
What is your most memorable gymnastics moment?
“When I stuck my vault at Southern Utah University in 2011.” (Wickus won the event with a career-high 9.925).