Abby Katz ’25, NCATA All-American

After three surgeries, countless hours of rehab, and one defiant comeback, senior Abby Katz has etched her name into Presbyterian College history.

The Columbia, S.C., native was recently named an All-American by the National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association (NCATA)—the first in the program’s history. For Katz, the honor represents more than a personal milestone. It is a testament to perseverance, passion, and a refusal to let injury define her legacy.

Abby Katz’ two biggest fans — her parents, Ann and John Katz.

Fighting the Odds

Katz’s road to national recognition was anything but easy. One year ago this week, she underwent a full elbow reconstruction—her third surgery since arriving at Presbyterian. Doctors and physical therapists advised her to medically retire from competition.

“I was told by my surgeon and all my physical therapists that I should not compete this year,” Katz said. “That really fueled the fire. I felt like I had some unfinished business.”

Against the advice of medical professionals, Katz launched into a grueling recovery process. She credits her resilience to her mother, Ann Katz.

“My mom is the bravest person I know,” Katz said. “She kept reminding me that I was capable of coming out stronger on the other side.”

A Record-Breaking Season

Returning to the mat wasn’t just about finishing what she started—it was about helping her team reach new heights.

This season, Katz served as a top and tumbler for the Blue Hose, playing a critical role in the Pyramid event, where Presbyterian scored three consecutive perfect 10s in the Open Pyramid heat. On April 5, she made school history by posting a perfect 9.55 in the Tumbling Event Open Pass during a win over Talladega.

She competed in at least 12 heats and the Team Event in every meet, contributing to a program-record seven wins. Her impact was further recognized with NCATA Specialist of the Week honors on March 26 and Honorable Mentions on April 2 and April 9.

Head Coach Kara Christian called Katz’s All-American honor “a testament to Abby’s unwavering dedication and relentless work ethic.”

“She has poured her heart and soul into this sport, consistently pushing her limits,” Christian said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see her commitment recognized at the highest level.”

Katz’ achievement raises the bar for acrobatics and tumbling at PC, she added.

“This kind of honor elevates the entire program,” Christian said. “It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and culture we’ve built here. This recognition shows our training methods are working and fuels everyone’s belief in what we’re striving to accomplish here. It’s a powerful statement about the direction of our program.”

Abby, No. 23, celebrates with teammates following a routine this spring in Templeton.

From Rehab to the Law Library

Even while battling injuries, Katz never lost focus in the classroom. She graduates this spring with a major in political science and public policy and minors in pre-law and criminal justice.

Ironically, Katz didn’t begin her college career planning to become a lawyer. Initially eyeing physical therapy—perhaps unsurprisingly, given her own medical history—she pivoted after taking a legal studies elective during her freshman year.

“I fell in love with every part of it,” she said. “I realized I was good at it and wanted to pursue it seriously.”

That realization came at a time when Katz was struggling with the demands of college life. Freshman year brought academic stress and injury-related setbacks. She nearly transferred.

“I didn’t get to compete my freshman year, and it was really hard,” she said. “My mom convinced me to tough it out through sophomore year. I gave it all I had and ended up falling in love with the place.”

One of the key figures in her decision to stay was Dr. Erin McAdams, the professor who first introduced her to legal studies—and who now serves as the college’s provost.

“She’s been such an amazing mentor,” Katz said. “Even now, she checks in on me. I didn’t want to leave her or this community.”

A Culture of Mentorship and Support

Katz isn’t just a standout performer—she’s become a mentor to younger athletes on the team. As a senior leader, she’s used her experiences to guide others, earning the admiration of her coach in the process.

“She means so much to me,” Coach Christian said. “It’s about the kind of person she is—her resilience, her willingness to learn. I’ve learned just as much from her as I hope she’s learned from me.”

The mutual respect speaks to the culture Katz helped build over four years. She recalls meeting other coaches on campus who knew her by name, and bonding with fellow student-athletes across sports.

“It’s a small campus, but there are so many opportunities,” Katz said. “You really can make the most of your time here. That’s what makes PC special.”

Abby Katz ’25 with PC president Dr. Anita Gustafson.

Looking Ahead

Katz is currently clerking at a law firm in Columbia but plans to continue her legal education outside South Carolina. Her top choices include George Washington University, Boston College, and St. John’s University.

“I want to be in a bigger city and challenge myself,” she said.

Wherever she lands next, Katz leaves Presbyterian with a legacy as both a trailblazer and a team player.

“I’m really proud of the career I’ve had,” she said. “It’s been an honor to wear the garnet and blue the last four years.”

Her coach agrees.

“Seeing her grow and succeed, both on and off the mat, has been so rewarding,” Christian said. “She is someone I truly admire.”

The daughter of John and Ann Katz of Columbia, the A.C. Flora High School graduate was also named to the NCATA Academic Honor Roll, along with her teammates Robyn Beeman, Taira Bentley, Sofia Cipriani, Aisha Edmond, Dilara Michlena, Avery Michowski, Jaleigh Richmond, and Anna Ruiz.