ABC- WHAS11 Kentucky; WLKY- Louisville

Shawn Johnson is conducting gymnastics clinics in New Albany and Louisville.

Johnson talked about a number of topics, including her experience at the summer Olympics in Beijing, her win on the TV show “Dancing with the Stars” and what’s next for the high school teenager.

Johnson spent Thursday morning today at Sigs Sportsplex in New Albany working with young girls on the balance beam and taking pictures with them.

And at just 17 years old, Johnson said she’s happy young gymnasts look up to her.

“When I was their age, I had my role models and idols and if they would have worked with me, I would have been the happiest girl in the world. So, if that’s how they feel, that’s the best gift you can give,” said Johnson.

Carley Kline, young gymnast, said, “She helps me with my front tucks.”  And Jaime Heiney, another young gymnast, said “She’s really nice. She’s very helpful.”

Johnson is an honor roll student at her public high school in West Des Moines, Iowa.  A role model to many in Kentuckiana.

But it wasn’t Johnson who stole the show; the Miracle Dancers, who use wheelchairs or braces to move and groove, made this a finale fit for a star at a dinner Thursday at the Ali Center and a luncheon Friday at St. Stephen Martyr School.

Johnson said, “It was beautiful. It touched everybody.”

As for the 2012 Olympics, she said it’s a tough decision — and one that can’t be made this early.

Johnson said she plans to finish her senior year of high school by taking online classes and plans to get back into training.

Posted in: Gymnastics, Press, Shawn Johnson |