In 1997, my sixth-grade PE teacher invited me to join the after-school weightlifting team, a decision that unexpectedly changed my life. That same year, the International Olympic Committee announced that Women’s Weightlifting would debut at the 2000 Olympic Games.
At 12, I struggled with imposter syndrome and doubted my potential for the Olympics. After all, only 0.000185% of Americans compete at the Olympic Games (US athletes competing divided by US population.) However, by age 20, I competed in my first Olympic Trials and earned an Olympic Alternate spot on the Olympic Squad.
Competing on the International Stage in 2008 in Beijing was something I could never have envisioned at age 12.
When asked about competing at the Olympics, I describe it as an incredible, emotional, and unforgettable experience. The constant adrenaline rush and electric energy are both exhilarating and exhausting. Representing the United States alongside legends like Kobe Bryant, Venus and Serena Williams, and Michael Phelps was surreal.
Standing on stage and hearing “Carissa Gump, Team USA” was deeply emotional, especially when I saw my family in the stands and thought of my late sister.
I gave my best effort, ending my athletic career with an American Record attempt. Although I didn’t make the lift, I was grateful for the chance to attempt the weight and to participate. Competing on the International Stage was the thrill of a lifetime.
Ten days later, I began a new chapter as a full-time college student at the University of Colorado, taking 18 credits that semester.
In June 2012, I gave birth to my daughter. Six weeks later, as the 2012 Games began, I sat on the couch with her in my arms. Just two years earlier, I had been told I might never have children, so holding her felt like winning a gold medal.
Watching the Games as a mom gave me a whole new perspective.
I finally understood what my parents felt. As a parent, when your child works hard and achieves a goal, your emotions run deeper than you ever imagined. You’re not just proud; you’re beyond proud. Once I became a mom, I never once was sad that I was not in London competing. I wasn’t competing on the International Stage, but I was doing the most important job I would ever do, raising a child.
People often ask me if my kids lift or if I want them to go to the Olympics in another sport. My answer is no.
They are each their own individual and don’t need to follow in my footsteps and compete on the International Stage to find success. If they want to, that’s wonderful; if not, that’s perfectly fine too. Whatever they do in life, I want them to have fun, be respectful, enjoy what they’re doing, and give their best effort.
Athletes and their parents often focus on the immediate rewards of competition—the ribbons, medals, and championships. However, whether you’re competing on the International Stage or competing in your local Little League, it’s crucial to recognize that sports teach far more than just physical skills.
The lessons learned on the field, in the pool, or on the court—discipline, focus, time management, collaboration, and resilience—are invaluable life skills. These hard-earned lessons shape athletes into well-rounded individuals, preparing them for success far beyond the world of sports.
Sports are not just about winning; they’re about building a foundation for a lifetime of achievement and character. The skills I learned from 13 years of competitive weightlifting have carried me through over 20 years as a professional working in the sport nonprofit sector.
When it comes to encouraging kids to participate in different sports, parents must ensure they don’t put pressure on their athletes or become overly pushy.
Encouragement and support are key to allowing children to enjoy sports, develop at their own pace, and grow into confident, capable individuals.
If a child decides to quit their sport, it’s important to let them make that choice on their own terms. This decision represents a significant growth opportunity and a mature step in their own personal development.
Competing on the international stage was a pivotal experience for me, but my children will choose their own paths. I share this from the unique perspectives of an athlete, coach, and parent.
Pin this post and be sure to follow Vermont Moms on Pinterest!
Vermont Moms Insiders get exclusive content, so sign up today!
Guest Writer: Carissa Gordon Gump
Carissa Gordon Gump is a 2008 Olympian in Weightlifting, an American Record holder, National Champion, Pan American Champion, All-American, World Team member, and USA Weightlifting and New England Weightlifting Hall of Fame member.
Gump worked for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee and USA Weightlifting as Associate Executive Director for Business and Development. She also served as the USA Weightlifting Foundation Executive Director.
Gump holds a B.S. in Business with an Emphasis in Sport Management from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and an M.P.A. in Nonprofit Management from Keller Graduate School of Management. She is pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from Liberty University.
She is a mom and a Vermonter, and loves audio books, being outdoors, and dark chocolate.
