Three Albertsdal sisters have made their family, school and community proud after receiving their SA colours in gymnastics.

Zoe Jacobs (eight), Kiara Mateman (10) and Chloe Jacobs (12), who attend Mulbarton Primary School and qualified for their Saaerialnastix Federation colours in tumbling, bench and trampoline.

Zoe is in Grade Four, Kiara is in Grade Five, and the eldest sister, Chloe, will begin Grade Eight. Despite their age differences, they share a strong bond through gymnastics.

Where it all began and training

Each girl started gymnastics at a different age. Zoe began at five-years-old.

“My sisters inspired me. Watching them made me feel I can do it,” she says.

Kiara started at age six, explaining, “I felt I was flexible.”

Chloe started at nine, “My father put me in gymnastics, but I did ballet before joining.”

The trio trains at the same club and says it helps them feel safe and confident.

“I am not alone,” shared Zoe.

Kiara added, “I feel I will never be bullied.” Chloe says training together makes her feel comfortable and motivated.
They train three times a week. On Mondays from 16:00 to 17:30, Tuesdays from 15:00 to 16:30, and Wednesdays from 16:00 to 18:00. Training can be tough.

“You must concentrate and keep your body tight,” shares the youngest sibling. Kiara finds floor routines challenging and says she has to concentrate on the beats of the music when doing a routine. Chloe mostly relies on her strength, physically and mentally.

When training gets tough, faith keeps them going.

Zoe shares, “I always say, ‘I know I can do this’ and ‘God is with me’.”

Kiara says, “I know God is with me and I am strong.”

Chloe adds, “I breathe in and out and push myself to work hard and always pray.”

When not training, Zoe likes playing and watching TV. Kiara enjoys playing and sports, while Chloe enjoys sports and chilling with friends.

A milestone to cherish

Receiving their SA colours was a special moment for the ambitious girls.

“I felt joy and was proud of myself. I was ready,” says Zoe.

Kiara adds, “I am proud of myself and shocked by what I am able to achieve.”

Chloe shares, “I was jumping with joy, and my heart was pounding so fast.”

The achievement means a lot to the sisters. It means they have progressed to the next level, it brings a sense of pride in their talent, and has encouraged them to keep believing in themselves and continue pushing to get to the next level.

Family support was crucial to their success. When asked who their biggest supporter was, they said their family. They are grateful to everyone.

All three look up to the top gymnasts. Zoe and Chloe admire Caitlin Rooskrontz and Simone Biles, and Kiara looks up to Biles.

The sister bond

Being sisters in the same sport has strengthened their bond and helped them grow as athletes and as individuals.

Zoe is happy knowing she has her sisters to support and guide her, especially when she needs help. Kiara also values having her sisters by her side, saying their support helps her when she struggles.

As the eldest, Chloe feels a strong sense of responsibility and believes she must push herself to be a good example for her sisters.

The girls admit that training together does bring out a competitive side in them. All three push one another to improve, and while the competition can be strong, it helps them work harder and perform better.

A bright future ahead

Looking to the future, Zoe wants to push herself even harder and aims to be at the top. Kiara’s goal is to keep going, not give up, and move on to the next level. Chloe has her sights set on going to Mauritius, which she hopes to achieve through her gymnastics.

The sisters share words of encouragement for other girls who dream of following in their footsteps.

Zoe believes it is important to aim high and never allow anything to stand in the way. Kiara encourages young gymnasts to stay strong, be brave, and listen to their coaches, while Chloe advises them to learn from their mistakes, get back up after setbacks, and always believe in themselves.