A young Whakatāne man is excited to have been selected to compete in the United States in gymnastics.

Jean-Daniel Rosset, 23, has been selected for the New Zealand Men’s Gymnastics Team to compete in two competitions in Texas this month: the Valeri Lukin Invitational and the Horton Challenge, both affiliated with WOGA (the World of Gymnastics Association).

Rosset, who is studying towards a master’s degree in engineering, reignited his gymnastics career in 2021 after an eight-year break, during which he pursued competitive swimming.

He decided to return to gymnastics when the opportunity arose in Auckland. Since his return, he has represented the Auckland region at two national championships, ultimately earning a spot on the men’s team to tour the US.

Now training at TriStar Gymnastics Club in Auckland, Rosset said he was surrounded by Commonwealth athletes and coached by a two-time Olympian – Misha Koudinov – alongside another coach from the US.

This inspiring environment, he said, had fuelled his long-standing goal to represent New Zealand internationally.

“This opportunity reflects years of hard work and dedication to my sport, not just in gymnastics but across all my commitments.

“Competing internationally has always been a dream of mine, and this experience fuels my enthusiasm to pursue even larger goals in the future,” he said.

As this is a self-funded tour, Rosset is fundraising to cover the costs.

If you’d like to support his journey, visit his Givealittle page: “Support my journey: Competing for NZ in Texas!”