Frida Esparza, a senior gymnast at UCLA, finds solace and inspiration in the music of Metallica, particularly their song “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” Just as the bass line of the song repeats and shifts, mirroring the tolling of a lone bell, Esparza’s journey back to confidence in gymnastics follows a similar pattern.

After battling confidence issues stemming from an ιnjury that sidelined her for the entirety of last season, Esparza tirelessly rehearsed routines and tweaked choreography until she fully reclaimed her place as a Bruin. Her resilience and determination have not only propelled her own comeback but have also served as a source of inspiration for her teammates, particularly those designated as “bubble athletes” who fluctuate in and out of lineups based on team needs and consistency.

Coach Janelle McDonald praises Esparza for igniting a newfound confidence among her teammates, noting the marked improvement in consistency and self-assurance. Esparza’s presence in the uneven bars lineup for six out of eight meets this season, with scores ranging from 9.200 to an impressive 9.950, reflects her dedication and progress. Additionally, she has recently earned a spot in the balance beam lineup, showcasing her versatility and determination to contribute to the team’s success.

Despite the mixed emotions that come with being a “bubble athlete,” Esparza acknowledges the positive impact it has on team dynamics. The fierce competition for lineup spots motivates each gymnast to push harder and strive for excellence, ultimately elevating the team as a whole.

Esparza credits her pre-training ritual of listening to Metallica’s “Ride the Lightning” album for boosting her energy and confidence during early morning sessions. The camaraderie and support within the team, coupled with Esparza’s unwavering dedication, have fostered an environment where every member is encouraged to rise to the occasion.

As UCLA boasts considerable depth this season, Esparza’s resilience and work ethic serve as a guiding light for her teammates, particularly fellow “bubble” gymnasts such as Alex Irvine and Maddie Anymi. Their collective determination to excel mirrors Esparza’s own journey of overcoming challenges and striving for greatness.

Esparza’s evolving beam choreography, coupled with her willingness to embrace change and explore new skills, exemplifies her growth and adaptability as an athlete. With the prоspect of debuting her floor exercise routine set to the music of Metallica, Esparza embodies the spirit of perseverance and resilience that defines UCLA gymnastics.

In the world of UCLA gymnastics, routines are honed through repetition and dedication, much like Metallica’s enduring performances of “For Whom The Bell Tolls.” Esparza’s journey epitomizes the relentless pursuit of excellence and serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Bruins.