Petting this adorable team member is a crucial part of the gymnasts’ pre-performance routines 🥺
For the average person, the pressure of being on the U.S. gymnastics team is hard to fathom. They not only perform physical feats at the outer limits of human ability but also do so under the scrutiny of the entire world.
That’s where Beacon comes in. Beacon, a golden retriever, is the gymnastics team’s first-ever certified therapy dog. For just over a year, he has been a source of comfort, bringing smiles to the gymnasts even during their most stressful moments. Whenever the team travels for competitions, Beacon is by their side, waiting on the sidelines to offer cuddles between routines.
Most recently, Beacon accompanied the team to the U.S. Olympic Trials. These trials are often even more high-pressure than the Olympics themselves, but Beacon’s presence made the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Several gymnasts have expressed their gratitude for Beacon’s support. Suni Lee shared a photo with Beacon on Instagram during the trials, writing, “[T]hank god for [B]eacon.” Laurie Hernandez, Olympic gold medalist and retired American gymnast, commented, “[I]n [B]eacon, we trust.”
Beacon is such a cherished member of the team that he even has his own official badge, proudly bearing the title “Goodest Boy.” According to Beacon’s mom, he has a special knack for sensing and absorbing stress, which means he often feels exhausted after long days of supporting the team. But he enjoys plenty of rest and recuperation between competition days.
Simone Biles, who made headlines during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics for prioritizing her mental health, has been part of the team’s broader effort to focus on emotional well-being. Beacon plays a key role in this initiative.
As the Olympics wrap up and the gymnasts return home for a well-deserved break, Beacon will be ready to welcome them back with tail wags and smiles whenever they return to competition.