The City of Worcester is already beaming with pride after hometown hero Stephen Nedoroscik helped propel Team USA to a bronze medal, putting the U.S. men's gymnastics team on the podium for the first time in 16 years.
The pommel horse specialist, who only competes on that one apparatus, quickly became a fan favorite after nailing his routine.
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The 26-year-old Worcester native and graduate of Worcester Technical High School began his gymnastics career early, but it was not until high school when he noticed his steep progression in the pommel horse event.
From there, he decided to focus on that specifically, which came to work out for him and Team USA.
Nedoroscik quickly became an internet sensation, keeping a low-key profile on the sidelines for three hours until it was his time to shine in his signature event, and now the bronze medalist is widely recognized as the "Clark Kent of pommel horse."
One can only imagine how the Worcester community feels about Nedoroscik's sudden success. The city shared a video of his winning routine on Facebook with a congratulatory message, writing, "Congratulations to Worcester native and Worcester Technical High School alum Stephen Nedoroscik and the U.S. men’s gymnastics team on winning an Olympic bronze medal!"
Nedoroscik has also become an inspiration to many young gymnasts looking to improve their skills. Growing up in Worcester, he loved to have fun with his tricks, playing on the equipment without any serious intentions of his future in the sport. The Olympian grew up practicing at The Sterling Academy of Gymnastics in Sterling, Mass., where he certainly left his mark, as the gymnastics center held a watch party during Nedoroscik's appearance at the Paris Games.
Nedoroscik embraces his humble background and continues to give back to his community. Sterling Gym recently posted their encouragement for him in the pommel horse event finals on Saturday, showing a "Sterling is for Stephen" sign.
Although there is currently no set date for Nedoroscik's return, Worcester plans to celebrate his accomplishment — which could even include a gold medal on Saturday — with a warm welcome home.
