RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil, Aug. 3, 2016 – Laurie Hernandez of Old Bridge, N.J./MG Elite, has decided to forego her collegiate eligibility and has officially signed with Sheryl Shade of Shade Global.  Hernandez, currently a member of the U.S. Olympic Women’s Gymnastics Team, plans to continue in elite gymnastics for the next four years and compete on Team USA.
 
“I am excited about what it means to compete at the highest level of this sport and really want to focus on elite gymnastics for the next four years,” said Hernandez.  “This was not an easy decision to make, but by making the decision now, it allows me to focus entirely on gymnastics and how I can enjoy this sport that I love.”
 
“Right now, I am focusing on how I can contribute to the success of this team here in Rio, and prefer this does not become a distraction to me or my teammates.”