Feature: Jasper Smith-Gordon
- WGC
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 13
Jasper's WGC Journey
In 2006, a 4-year-old boy stepped onto the mats at Woking Gymnastics Club. That boy was Jasper Smith-Gordon. Nineteen years later, he’s the NCAA’s No. 1 vaulter, competing for UC Berkeley’s four-time NCAA champion men’s gymnastics team. Jasper’s path is one of quiet determination, steady growth, and immense dedication.
Jasper trained at our club from 2006 to 2021, from ages 4 to 18, most of it as part of the Men's Elite Squad. He shared those years with coaches Simon Elliot, Craig, and Steve, and teammates Jamie, Fraser, Josh, and Rudi (to name a few). Training sessions weren't just about skills; they shaped who he became.
Lessons That Shaped Jasper
Jasper reflects on his time at our club and how it impacted him:
"I think the biggest thing that WGC gave me was an understanding of respect and discipline. Training as an elite athlete for the majority of your life, you learn many translatable skills, including teamwork and time management, but the coaching staff at Woking particularly focuses on respect and discipline, ensuring each athlete develops into a hardworking and goal-oriented young adult."
He speaks warmly of those who guided him:
Simon Elliot: "very supportive coach, always focused on the bigger picture and creating not just great gymnasts but respectful athletes and young men."
Craig: "always hard working and diligent. Great role model for young athletes."
Steve: "always brings a bright and positive attitude to training and truly cares for each gymnast as a person."
Teammates Jamie, Fraser, Josh, Rudi: "supportive teammates, willing to work hard, friendly competition, always wanted the best for you, just all-around lovely humans."
These relationships left a lasting mark, carrying Jasper forward.
Thriving at Berkeley
Now living in San Francisco, Jasper is pursuing 2 Bachelor's degrees in Economics and Business Administration at the University of California, Berkeley, with graduation in May 2026.
A 2x Dean's List honoree, he balances rigorous academics with elite gymnastics as a key member of the California Men's Gymnastics Team. He now holds the highest vault score in the Nation...
Click the photo below to watch Jasper's epic vault!
Follow his updates on Instagram at @jaspersmithgordon and support the team at @calgym.
Words for the Next Generation
Jasper shares this advice for young gymnasts:
"The path to success isn't fixed, and it rarely follows convention. Instead of focusing on how others got there, it matters more to decide the direction you want to take."
Jasper's story reminds us how dedication, from late-night trainings on the mat to big stages, can lead to remarkable places. It's inspiring to see an alum doing so well.
Stay Connected
Share your own memories or alumni updates in the comments! Let's celebrate these journeys together.
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