Laurie Hernandez, 16, will be the gym's first Olympian. Watch video
MORGANVILLE -- Dozens of younger gymnasts, parents and media crowded around Laurie Hernandez as she swung from bar to bar Tuesday afternoon.
Other than the sound of young gymnastics jumping up and down, whispering, the room was silent.
This was Hernandez's first appearance back at Monmouth Gymnastics Academy in Morganville after placing third in the team trials in San Jose, Calif., and becoming a member of the U.S. Olympics team.
"It's definitely been a big life change," said 16-year-old Hernandez, who lives in Old Bridge. "Coming back there's a lot of reporters and there's all the moms. Things have changed already."
Hernandez has trained with coach Maggie Haney for nearly 10 years, and she's been at Monmouth Gymnastics Academy for most of that time.
Hernandez's Olympic debut is a first for Monmouth Gymnastics Academy. The gym's owner Karen Bianchino said she anticipates an increase in business for the gym.
"An Olympic year always means more business, nevermind now having an Olympian," said Bianchino, who's owned the gym for 16 years.
When Hernandez returned on Tuesday, her gym welcomed her with confetti and glitter.
"I'm not shocked because she works so hard and she deserves it all," said 14-year-old Emily Liszewski, who's been at the gym for four years.
Hunter Warchal, a coach at the gym, expressed pride for Hernandez. He said she often offers to help him teach.
"She's such a cool girl. Down to earth, humble. This is her thing," he said.
Kate Mishkin may be reached at kmishkin@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KateMishkin. Find NJ.com on Facebook.