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Danielle Breen reached new heights in 2017, as she became a second-team All-American on balance beam after finishing sixth on the event at the NCAA Semifinal. She set career highs on both beam and floor as a junior, and she picked up three event titles, including the NCAA Lincoln Regional beam title. Breen also took an expanded leadership role as a junior, and looks to do the same heading into her senior season.
Outside of competition, she is active in the community and thrives in the classroom. She was named a CoSIDA Academic All-American in 2017, the 16th NU women's gymnast to earn the honor. She has been a member of the Tom Osborne Citizenship Team and the Nebraska Scholar-Athlete Honor Roll in each of her first three seasons. Breen earned a Sam Foltz Hero 27 Leadership Award, in 2017, and she claimed a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar Award and a Big Ten Sportsmanship Award in 2016. Breen has also been named Academic All-Big Ten twice.
Danielle took a few minutes from her challenging academic and athletic schedule to answer some questions and give us a little insight into her life outside the gym.
Favorite TV show growing up: Hannah Montana
What would you do with a time machine: Nothing. Unnecessary decision. Time machines aren't real (yet)
Celebrity crush: Theo James
Favorite thing about Nebraska (the school): The unity and enthusiasm for the Huskers
Best thing about Nebraska (the place): The people, and it feels the same as Iowa
Fondest gymnastics memory: Competing in college at the Devaney Center for the first time
Do you have any pre-meet rituals: Not really. I listen to music and try to stay relaxed and laughing
What superpower would you choose: Telekinesis
What is your favorite song: Can't pick one, I like too many
What do you want to do after college: Still trying to figure out the specifics
What is your favorite event: Beam
Why did you choose Nebraska: The awesome atmosphere and the support for both academics and athletics
What is your favorite movie genre: Comedy and romance
What is your favorite thing about competing: The challenge and excitement of performing after several months of training
Who was your idol growing up: My parents