Faced with a roster of 21 athletes — most of them newcomers — first-year head coach Samantha Klipper took an unconventional approach: no tryouts, no cuts. Just an emphasis on teamwork and community. The result? A Marblehead/Swampscott’s gymnastics squad that not only posted a solid winter season record of 5-4 across January and February, but also embraced a fresh identity and culture.
Klipper’s coaching philosophy is built on collaboration and making sure everyone is aligned toward a common goal.
“If the girls are part of the process, they’re more motivated to work with you,” said Klipper. “I would ask ‘What do you need for me, as a coach, to help make this season successful for you?’ That was super helpful.”
That team-first mentality proved essential when Klipper and her experienced assistant coach, Ashley Bunnell, saw the overwhelming interest in the program – 21 female athletes, ranging from middle school to high school. With only six returning gymnasts, they made the key decision: there would be no tryouts.
“If everyone wanted to contribute in some way, whatever way that was, then we were going to let them do it,” Klipper said.
While Klipper grew up in gymnastics, she had no prior coaching experience. As the head varsity cheerleading coach at Marblehead High School, she was approached by a senior cheerleader – also a gymnast – who encouraged her to take over as head coach for the gymnastics team. Although it was a last minute decision, she took it with a desire to make the season enjoyable.
“The team was very patient with me,” she said. “It was great, having them there and knowing what I needed to do. They taught me.”
As Klipper settled into the role, she leaned on Burnell, an alumna and former captain of the Marblehead/Swampscott squad, who had five years of coaching experience under her belt.
“The girls continue to respark my love and passion for the sport,” Burnell said. “This job truly teaches me how to be resilient regardless of the outcome. There are always things to work on but being present in the moment is what is important – reminding myself and the girls what a privilege it is to be a part of this team.”
One of the biggest changes this season? The team was officially renamed as Marblehead/Swampscott, rather than just Marblehead Gymnastics. Team sweatshirts, official paperwork, and a new logo meant to encourage team pride and inclusivity. At the end-of-year banquet, the girls received matching sweatpants with the new logo, perfect for next season’s warmups.
Getting the team captains on board with the change was easy.
“When I told them, they really liked the idea of creating something where everyone felt included,” Klipper said. “With all of the new girls, they were excited about creating that new culture for the new team.”
That sense of unity helped the team navigate a season filled with challenges, including illnesses that sidelined half the team and multiple injuries. “The girls are really, really connected and they’re really good friends. They don’t act like they’re from two different towns.” Klipper said. “It feels like a fresh start and everybody was on board.”
One of the toughest hurdles was the restricted practice space at the YMCA, which often meant the team couldn’t rehearse for certain events. For girls new to competition, it was an added layer of stress.
“We couldn’t use the floor at all on one of our practice days,” said Klipper. “That’s hard because it meant we couldn’t practice before our meet.”
But the team adapted by finding other spots in the gym to practice. “It’s a lesson in life — staying positive through challenges,” Klipper said.
With the 2024-25 season wrapped, Klipper feels confident heading into next winter. She plans to maintain her collaborative approach while adding more structure to keep practices focused on team feedback. Another thing she won’t change? The Marblehead/Swampscott name.
For Burnell, the highlight of the season was watching the girls grow as athletes and individuals.
“Their dedication, enthusiasm, and love for the sport is undeniable,” said Burnell “Every practice and meet is something I will always cherish and look forward to every year.”
Reflecting on her first season, Klipper was struck by the team’s talent and camaraderie. “They are awesome, and that’s so important to me,” she said.
Lucy Kratman is a student at Endicott College studying journalism.
