Terp Q&A: Reese McClure
Maddie Kyler, One Maryland Magazine Contributor
3/8/2022
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Maryland Athletics media relations assistant Maddie Kyler had a chance to catch up with Maryland gymnast Reese McClure to talk about her road to becoming a Terp, her passion for Maryland and how her experiences in College Park have shaped her.
What does it mean to you to compete as a Terp?
“Having grown up in Maryland, it was always a dream of mine to be a Terp. As a kid, I always attended all of the summer gymnastics camps and I looked up to the girls on the team so much. I wanted to be just like them. Now, being one of the girls on the team and getting to compete and coach summer camps it's nothing short of a dream come true.”
When did you know you wanted to come to Maryland?
“I knew from a very young age that no school I would look at or be recruited to would compare to the University of Maryland. The academics, athletics and beautiful campus are unbeatable. I am only about an hour away from home, making it the perfect location - not too far but far enough. When Maryland offered me a scholarship there was no doubt in my mind that this school is where I wanted to be.”
What is one of your favorite memories growing up as a fan of Maryland?
“One of my favorite memories growing up as a Maryland fan was just tailgating for the football games. I remember my dad dragging our whole family out of bed at 6 a.m. for a football game that started at 1 p.m. All of our closest family friends would be there and we would just tailgate for hours playing football and corn hole, and eating so much food.”
Who was your favorite athlete to watch?
“One that stands out to me is fellow Terp, Stefon Diggs. He went to the NFL way before I got to Maryland, but I remember coming to football games and he was just such a standout player. Stefon to me just really embodied a successful student-athlete here at the University of Maryland.”
Who did you meet growing up that had a major influence on your passion and decision to come to Maryland?
“I remember on my first unofficial visit here at the University of Maryland as my coaches were taking me around GSAC (Gossett Student-Athlete Center) and learning about the academic support here, I met [former men’s basketball star] Jake Layman. I was so starstruck as I had come to games and watched him and seen him on the TV numerous times. He was kind enough to take a picture with me and he was so much taller than me, you never realize how tall someone is on the TV.”
How do you think Maryland has shaped you for the future?
“Maryland has such a big impact on student-athletes and the future they set up for them. With the help from advisors that prepare you for career readiness, it doesn't make what the future holds that scary. Gymnastics-wise, the sport teaches you discipline, hard work, and determination. My coaches have always preached school first, then gymnastics and then everything else. This is something that I choose to live by every day. Maryland has made my future look brighter than ever.”
