Jade Carey, a name that has become synonymous with resilience and talent in the world of gymnastics, is gearing up for another Olympic adventure. After her remarkable performance at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she clinched a gold medal in the floor exercise, Jade is set to represent Team USA once again at the upcoming Paris Olympics. But behind every successful athlete, there are often unsung heroes—her parents, Brian Carey and Danielle Greenberg, who have played pivotal roles in her journey.
Jade Carey was born on May 27, 2000, into a family deeply rooted in gymnastics. Her parents, both former gymnasts themselves, owned a gym where Jade was introduced to the sport at a very young age. According to her NBC Olympics bio, she began her gymnastics journey in 2001, just a year after her birth. This early exposure to gymnastics laid the foundation for her future success.
Brian Carey, Jade’s father, is not only her parent but also her coach. He has been instrumental in shaping her gymnastics career. Brian currently owns Carey On Gymnastics, a facility where he has implemented a program that reflects his philosophy on training and athlete development. His commitment to the sport and to his daughter is evident in the way he has guided her through the ups and downs of competitive gymnastics.
Danielle Greenberg, Jade’s mother, is also a significant figure in her life. As a coach at Gold Medal Gymnastics, Danielle has dedicated her career to nurturing young gymnasts. She has always emphasized the importance of allowing Jade to develop her love for the sport organically. In an interview with the Arizona Republic, Danielle shared her philosophy: “My philosophy from the beginning was I just wanted her to love the sport on her own. Her dad and I never pushed. We let her guide the ship all the way through.” This approach has fostered a supportive environment for Jade, allowing her to thrive without the pressure often associated with elite sports.
Despite their divorce when Jade was young, Brian and Danielle have maintained an amicable relationship, which has been beneficial for Jade. They have developed a workable custody arrangement that accommodates Jade’s rigorous training schedule. Typically, she spends weekends with her mother and weekdays with her father, allowing her to benefit from both parents’ coaching and support.
Jade’s family dynamic extends beyond her parents. She is one of four siblings, with her siblings being Alexsis, Taeva, and Xandon. The family has always been supportive of Jade’s gymnastics career, and during the Tokyo Olympics, they organized a watch party in Orlando, Florida, to cheer her on from afar due to COVID-19 restrictions. Jade’s siblings and mother shared in the excitement of her Olympic journey, even if they couldn’t be there in person.
Throughout her career, Jade has faced challenges, including the pressure of competing at the highest level. However, her parents have instilled in her the importance of mental health and well-being. Danielle expressed her desire for Jade to walk away from competitions feeling healthy and happy, regardless of the outcome. “If that’s with a medal or not, it doesn’t matter. I’m proud of her either way,” she stated, highlighting the unconditional support she provides.
Jade’s journey to the Olympics has been anything but conventional. While many gymnasts begin competing at an elite level in their early teens, Jade did not start until she was 17. This late start did not hinder her; instead, it propelled her to success. In her first year at the senior elite level, she won two silver medals at the World Championships, showcasing her talent and determination.
As Jade prepares for the Paris Olympics, she continues to excel in both elite gymnastics and NCAA competitions. Currently a junior at Oregon State University, she has made a name for herself in the collegiate gymnastics scene. Her decision to remain at Oregon State while training for the Olympics speaks volumes about her commitment to her education and her sport. Jade has expressed her love for the family-like environment at Oregon State, which has further motivated her to succeed.
Jade’s accomplishments are numerous. She has achieved perfect 10s in various events, a feat that only a select few gymnasts have accomplished. Her skills have even led to a move being named after her, a testament to her impact on the sport. As she continues to train under the guidance of her father, Jade is focused on making her mark at the Paris Olympics.
In conclusion, Jade Carey is not just an Olympic athlete; she is a product of her environment, shaped by the love and support of her parents, Brian Carey and Danielle Greenberg. Their dedication to her well-being and success has allowed Jade to flourish in gymnastics, and as she heads to Paris, the world will be watching to see what this remarkable athlete achieves next.
Source: NBC Olympics, Arizona Republic, The Daily Barometer
