Just outside Oregon State University’s home arena, a massive banner of Jade Carey beams with pride. The message is simple yet powerful: “3-time Olympic medalist.” It’s a towering tribute to a gymnastics icon, and ahead of the NCAA Gymnastics Championships, it’s the perfect reminder of who calls this place “home.” But for Jade Carey’s fans, there’s now even more reason to be over the moon.

On April 15, Jade was officially announced as the 2025 AAI Award winner—an honor recognizing the top senior gymnast in the nation. Cue the confetti and celebrations. And while Beaver Nation erupted in cheers, the most heartfelt moment may have come from someone special to Jade. Her rumored girlfriend, Aimee Sinacola, shared an emotional Instagram story today, reposting Oregon State Gymnastics’ celebratory post and adding: “The best gymnast in history 👑 so proud of you”—tagging Jade directly. Talk about support that sticks the landing.

It’s all building up to what might be the most significant moment of Jade’s collegiate career. On Thursday, April 17, Carey will compete in her fourth individual NCAA Gymnastics Championship. It’s not just another meet—this is her last shot to claim that elusive NCAA individual gold medal. So far in her college journey, she’s collected four silvers and one bronze. Now, one final routine stands between her and the golden finish her collegiate legacy deserves. With the giant banner waving, the AAI Award in hand, and love pouring in from all corners, this moment feels like destiny. How? Just look at Jade’s road to the stage of the AAI Award. 

To claim the coveted 2025 AAI Award, Jade Carey didn’t just rise above the competition—she soared past some of the biggest names in NCAA gymnastics. We’re talking about Jordan Bowers and Audrey Davis from powerhouse Oklahoma, Aleah Finnegan from LSU, Grace McCallum from Utah, and Leanne Wong from Florida. These are not just gymnasts—they’re stars in their own right. But this year, the spotlight belonged to Jade. And with this win, Carey doesn’t just make headlines—she makes history.

Jade now joins an elite circle of Oregon State legends: Mary Ayotte-Law (1982), Joy Selig (1991), and Chari Knight (1994). So, that’s just three Beavers in the history of the program who had earned the AAI Award before April 15, 2025. And now, Jade’s name is etched alongside them—solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest to ever wear the orange and black. Feeling the goosebumps? But was it a smooth-sailing journey? Nope. In her interaction with The Oregonian recently, the Olympian said, “I’ve had to deal with a lot of high-pressure situations, so that really helped my gymnastics flourish this year.” But she feels lucky for a few reasons. Her Instagram story posted today gave a hint: “Wow!! extremely grateful and honored thank you for all the love and support. Shoutout to all of the incredible finalists. truly paving the way for NCAA gymnastics.” But there’s more to the story.  And what are those? 

Jade Carey pays her gratitude to the House of Beavers

April 17-19 marks the final chapter of an extraordinary collegiate journey—Jade Carey’s last appearance at the NCAA Gymnastics Championships. After years of dazzling performances, Olympic glory, and unforgettable moments in orange and black, her time with the Oregon State Beavers is nearing its end. But before she salutes the crowd one last time, Jade took a moment to reflect on what this journey has meant to her. At an emotional press conference on April 11, Jade opened up from the heart.

“The support of Beaver Nation has meant everything to me,” the Phoenix native said, her voice laced with gratitude. “I couldn’t do it without the love and support of all of our fans. They’re incredible and really what ultimately wanted me to come back in the first place.” Those words hit different because they’re not just about gymnastics. They’re about home, family, and the community that wrapped Jade in unwavering support from day one.

From freshman phenom to Olympic medalist and now an AAI Award winner, Jade Carey’s story has been nothing short of legendary. And as she steps onto the floor one final time, she won’t just be competing for a gold medal—she’ll be doing it for everyone who cheered, believed, and stood by her every flip of the way. Beaver Nation, this one’s for you.