In this episode of The Championship Corner Podcast, Ryan Romano sits down with Syla Toney to learn more about who she is beyond gymnastics.

Syla shares the creative side of her personality, from sewing and nail art to playing guitar, and explains how many of those interests started simply by being curious and trying something new. That same curiosity carries over into the way she approaches learning, competition, and life.

Throughout the conversation, Syla talks about the importance of being educated, driven, and willing to figure things out for yourself. One of the qualities that stands out most is her resourcefulness: if she wants to accomplish something, she is willing to find a way to make it happen.

Syla also opens up about her personality as both a person and a competitor. Outside the gym, she describes herself as outgoing, talkative, funny, and “giggly.” When competition begins, however, her competitive side takes over. She enjoys being locked in, focused, and fully engaged in what she is doing.

The episode also explores what Syla is looking for as she continues through the college recruiting process. Academically, she is interested in schools with strong business programs because she hopes to become an entrepreneur one day. From a gymnastics standpoint, she values a team that is genuinely close and connected, much like the relationships she has developed with her current teammates.

Looking further into the future, Syla shares some big goals for college gymnastics: becoming an all-around competitor and ultimately working toward scoring a perfect 10 on every event.

The conversation closes with Syla answering one important question: if she could stand in front of 100,000 people and leave them with one message, what would it be?

Her answer was simple and powerful: Be yourself. Don’t change who you are for other people. You only get one life, so live it as yourself.