Freeport’s Allyson Turk hopes to build off medal-laden sophomore gymnastics season

By: Ray Fisher
Monday, March 10, 2025 | 10:09 AM

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Allyson Turk has an unwavering commitment and tireless determination, perfect qualities for an up-and-coming high school gymnast.

And she’s only a sophomore.

The Freeport athlete earned the silver medal in the silver division all-around competition at the Pennsylvania Classic held Feb. 22 at Huntingdon High School.

Turk was the state champion on the balance beam and placed seventh on the uneven bars.

She advanced to the PA Classic after taking home WPIAL silver in the all-around category. Turk finished second on bars and fourth on beam at the WPIAL meet Feb. 8 at Moon.

“I went into both the WPIAL and PA Classic just wanting to do my best,” Turk said. “I walked away from both meets feeling accomplished and proud of my performances.

“This was my first year in high school gymnastics. It was great. I loved how encouraging everyone was. Kids from other schools cheer each other on just because everyone knows how hard the sport is and wants to support each other.”

Sophomore Paige Montgomery and junior Andie Ehalt also are Freeport gymnasts. Both advanced to the WPIAL championships.

“We were independent gymnasts representing Freeport this year,” Turk said, “but we hope to be a team next year.”

The 16-year-old Turk, who owns a driver’s permit and looks forward to earning her license in May, has been coached by Jessica Horwatt, along with Renee Ruggeri, for four years at Brandy Marie’s Gymnastics in Sarver.

“Allyson’s progress over the past few months has been impressive,” Horwatt said. “She has shown remarkable dedication by consistently striving to enhance her skills and take on more advanced challenges.

“It’s evident Allyson’s hard work and commitment to learning have been paying off, as she continuously pushes herself to conquer increasingly difficult tasks. Her relentless drive and positive attitude are inspiring, and it’s clear she’s on a path to achieve great things.”

Horwatt believes Turk’s blossoming career also can be attributed to her eye-catching athleticism.

“Allyson is a standout athlete with a passion for gymnastics that shines through in every routine,” Horwatt said. “Not only is she exceptional on the floor, showcasing her incredible tumbling skills with power and finesse, but she also excels on bars and beam, demonstrating a well-rounded talent in all areas.

“Her dedication and hard work are evident in her wolf turn on beam, a skill she focused on for a whole year. Allyson’s journey is a testament to her relentless spirit and commitment to reaching her goals in the sport she loves.”

Turk, who stands 5-foot-3, has been dedicated to gymnastics since the age of 5. The sport has given her a specialized focus for most of her life.

“When I was little, I wanted to be a gymnast because it was the closest I would ever get to flying,” she said. “The thing I enjoy most about gymnastics is putting the work in to get new skills. The climb to get better is the best part. It is rewarding to work very hard on a skill and finally be able to do it.

“I am so thankful for gymnastics. It has made me who I am today. It has taught me to stand tall and salute even after I fall.”

Horwatt knew her prized pupil was a candidate for success and was eager to guide her along that path.

“I have been one of Allyson’s coaches at Brandy Marie’s center, and it has been an absolute honor,” Horwatt said. “When she approached me to coach her for high school gymnastics with Renee, I was beyond thrilled. Allyson’s growth in this sport has been nothing short of remarkable. She pushes herself to learn new skills and never settles for anything less than her best.

“As a coach at BMG, seeing Ally serve as a role model for other gymnasts, including my daughter, fills me with gratitude. It’s heartwarming to witness Ally also giving back by coaching our bronze and silver teams on her off-days from training.”

Horwatt is thankful for Turk’s love of gymnastics, both in and out of the gym.

“Allyson is truly a breath of fresh air with her vibrant and engaging personality,” Horwatt said. “She connects with others and radiates positivity, making it a joy to be around her. She demonstrates the perfect balance of hard work and determination, setting a shining example for everyone in her circle.

“Allyson’s remarkable qualities make her someone to admire and aspire to be like, the kind of role model parents hope their daughters will look up to with pride.”

Turk lives in Sarver and competes in the offseason at BMG. She and her coaches already are looking forward to the 2025-26 high school season.

“I train at Brandy Marie’s all year. I even train for my high school gymnastics there,” Turk said. “I also train for USAG there, and I am a diamond division (gymnast). I’m training to be a sapphire next year.

“My expectations are always to do my best. I have a list of new skills (for) next season. I’m working on a release move for bars, and I’m hoping to get my double back off the bars this summer, too.”

Brandy Pomaybo, owner of BMG, is Turk’s club coach. Ruggeri is in charge of the Burrell and Hempfield gymnastics squads. She also owns Ultimate Gymnastics in Delmont.

“Brandy was supportive of me doing high school gymnastics representing Freeport under Renee,” Turk said. “When I learned that Paige did gymnastics representing Freeport, I asked her coach (Ruggeri) if she could represent me, too. Renee was awesome and said yes. I am so thankful for all my coaches.”

Turk can be found at the BMG facility about 16 hours per week.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Ally’s accomplishments,” Horwatt said, “and I’m already eagerly anticipating the upcoming high school season with Ally leading the way. It is evident that her unrelenting work ethic and genuine love for the sport make her a role model. Her approach to the sport not only showcases her hard work but also highlights her dedication to constant improvement.

“Allyson’s friendly demeanor and positive attitude serve as additional assets that contribute to her success.”

Turk indicated that her favorite event is bars — mainly because “it is challenging.” She trains year-round for gymnastics while participating in the Key Club, ski club and yearbook club at Freeport.

“I think bars is my favorite event because it is hard,” Turk said. “It takes a lot of muscle, time and hard work to grow on bars. I love getting new skills. I sometimes work on a bar skill for a year, and it is always rewarding when I finally compete (on bars) for the school.”

Not only is Turk a skilled athlete, she also excels academically. She is an honor roll student who maintains a rock-solid 4.0 GPA. Her favorite subject is math.

“With such determination and drive, Allyson’s future in gymnastics looks incredibly promising,” Horwatt said.

Next up for Freeport sophomore is a state-level competition next month. Turk will represent BMG.

“High school states are over,” she said, “but I am looking forward to competing as a diamond gymnast at the end of April at Moon.”

Tags: Freeport