The Aberdeen Central gymnastics program is out to build a foundation.

With just one senior and one junior on the roster, the Golden Eagles are heavily fortified in the younger ranks, and plan to use this season as a means of incremental personal improvement with an eye toward the future.

“We’re just going to work with what we have and improve individually,” said Central coach Mickey Everson. “Our team is small this year. … It’s just going to be more of a learning experience.”

While that could be interpreted as a negative, Everson sees it as a golden opportunity.

“I had 31 kids try out, and I took them all,” Everson said. “There wasn’t a single one who wasn’t safe and coachable. I have so many sixth graders this year, so our middle school team is going to be strong. In a couple years we’re going to have a good (varsity) team.”

Central’s lone senior this season is Masyn Schutter, who drew high praise from Everson.

“She’s amazing,” Everson said. “She was voted team captain again. She does a great job. The girls fit right in with her. She’s a great tool to help the younger kids. She’s always positive and cheerful. Sometimes she cheers more for them and she’s harder on herself.”

That leadership will be valuable as the season gears up, Everson said. The Golden Eagles are hoping to build a culture of togetherness during a building year.

“The girls all do great together,” Everson said. “Sometimes you have some kids who aren’t cohesive. These girls are like family. They’re fun to work with. We’ve been having a lot of fun in practice. Trying to make it so fun, so this is something they want to stick with.”

Traditionally, the Golden Eagles have opened the season at home, but will switch it up this season and head to Jamestown for their season opener before returning home to host the Hub City Invitational on Dec. 10.

That home meet will serve as a test run for hosting the state competition at season’s end.

“That will have all the teams you’ll see at the state meet,” Everson said.