The Fall & Rise of a Gymnast.
Episode: #002.
Phil Stewart.Athlete: Gymnast.
Phil Stewart joins us with Part 1 of his story as an Almost Pro Athlete - from breaking his neck at 19 to making an international comeback. Phil’s gymnastics journey began at just five years old, leading him to the Victorian Men’s High Performance Centre and a sporting scholarship to the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School, where he trained 30 hours a week. At 19, a trampoline accident left him with a broken neck, but instead of ending his career, it became a defining turning point. Phil fought his way back, made his international debut at 21, and became the first Victorian gymnast to land a highly difficult dismount in competition. He went on to compete internationally until 26 and today is the High Performance Coordinator at the State Gymnastics Centre in Prahran, Victoria. In Part 1, we dive into Phil’s story as an athlete - the highs, the lows, and the resilience it takes to fight back when everything is stacked against you.
Stream Episode. 33:27mins.
