Olympic fever hits Rochester gymnasts - KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and Sports

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) -- At J.E.T.S. Gymnastics there's always a standard of excellence but now the gymnasts can see how hard work pays off for some of the world's most talented athletes.

J.E.T.S. coach Daniel Nelson says, "We're definitely using the Olympic fever to inspire our own athletes and get the best out of them as they can be in the Olympic spirit."

Perhaps one of the gymnasts with the greatest case of Olympic fever is Jett Smith, who will soon be boarding a plane bound for London.

Smith says, "I sorta look up to them because they probably went through a lot of training hard to get to the Olympics. We have to do that if that's what we want to do later in life."

Head Coach at J.E.T.S. Valentin Buse explains, "The kids are working much harder and they seem to be more motivated about gymnastics on this Olympic year."

It's a sport that continues to grow across the country.

Nelson says, "I think the popularity of gymnastics has risen in the United States since the women won the gold medal in 1996."

The goal isn't just a spot on the Olympic team someday.

Nelson says, "We know that realistically there are only five spots for both men and women so we like to just strive for every athlete to try their best."

You can check out the Olympics airing on KTTC beginning July 27. For a full schedule click here.