CJ Keuneke is a rising star in the world of women’s college gymnastics at UC Berkeley. The freshman all-around competitor joined the Golden Bears for the 2024-2025 season, bringing impressive skills and a strong competitive background.
Keuneke’s addition to the Cal women’s gymnastics team has sparked excitement among fans and coaches alike, with her potential to make a significant impact in collegiate competitions.
Keuneke’s journey to UC Berkeley began with her successful career at MM23 under coach Marcelo Tallandre. Her talent caught the eye of Cal’s recruiters, leading to her signing with the Golden Bears as part of their 2024 recruiting class.
Alongside teammates Ondine Achampong and Mya Wiley, Keuneke aims to elevate Cal’s gymnastics program to new heights.
As Keuneke settles into her role on the team, many are eager to see how her skills translate to the collegiate level. Her performances on vault, bars, beam, and floor exercise will be crucial in Cal’s pursuit of conference and national honors.
With a blend of power and grace, Keuneke represents the bright future of UC Berkeley gymnastics.
Early Life And Career Beginning
CJ Keuneke’s journey in gymnastics began at a young age, setting the foundation for her future success. Her early experiences and high school achievements paved the way for her college career at UC Berkeley.
CJ Keuneke’s Early Life And Introduction To Gymnastics
CJ Keuneke was born to Kelly Carfora and Alan Keuneke in Denver, Colorado. Her mother, Kelly, was a gymnast at the University of Michigan, which likely played a role in CJ’s introduction to the sport.
From an early age, CJ showed a natural talent for gymnastics. She began training seriously around the age of 6, quickly progressing through the ranks of junior gymnastics.
CJ’s childhood was filled with gymnastics training, but she also enjoyed other activities. She developed interests in drawing, cooking, and interior design, which provided balance to her rigorous athletic pursuits.
High School Gymnastics Career And Notable Achievements
During her high school years, CJ Keuneke competed for MM23 under coach Marcelo Tallandre. This period was crucial in shaping her skills as an all-around gymnast.
CJ’s performances in high school competitions caught the attention of college recruiters. Her strengths in all four gymnastics events – vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise – made her a valuable prospect.
Notable achievements during this time included:
- Multiple state-level titles
- Top finishes in regional competitions
- Qualification for national-level meets
These accomplishments solidified CJ’s status as a top recruit for collegiate gymnastics programs.
Significant Coaches Or Mentors
Coach Marcelo Tallandre played a pivotal role in CJ Keuneke’s development as a gymnast. Under his guidance at MM23, CJ honed her skills and competitive mindset.
CJ’s mother, Kelly, also served as a significant mentor. Her experience as a collegiate gymnast provided valuable insights into the sport and the challenges of balancing athletics with academics.
Other influential figures in CJ’s early career included:
- Her junior coaches who recognized and nurtured her talent
- Teammates who pushed her to excel
- Judges and officials who provided constructive feedback
These mentors collectively shaped CJ into the gymnast who would later join the UC Berkeley women’s gymnastics team.
UC Berkeley Gymnastics Journey
CJ Keuneke’s path at UC Berkeley has been marked by impressive performances and steady growth. Her journey showcases the blend of athletic skill and academic excellence that defines Cal’s gymnastics program.
Recruitment To UC Berkeley And College Choice
CJ Keuneke’s recruitment to UC Berkeley was a significant milestone in her gymnastics career. The talented gymnast from Denver, Colorado caught the attention of Cal’s coaching staff with her all-around abilities.
Keuneke’s decision to join the Golden Bears was influenced by UC Berkeley’s top-tier academics and strong gymnastics program.
In November 2022, Keuneke announced her verbal commitment to UC Berkeley on a full athletic scholarship. Her commitment was part of Cal’s 2024 signing class, which included other sought-after recruits like Ondine Achampong and Mya Wiley.
Performance Statistics And Key Contributions
As a freshman on the Cal women’s gymnastics team, Keuneke quickly established herself as a valuable contributor. Her all-around skills have been put to good use in various events, helping the team in meets throughout the season.
Key performance highlights include:
- Consistent scores in the 9.8+ range on floor exercise
- Strong showings on uneven bars, often scoring above 9.75
- Solid performances on balance beam, contributing to team totals
Keuneke’s versatility has made her an asset to the team, allowing coaches to utilize her skills across multiple events as needed.
Specific Routines Or Events Of Excellence
Keuneke has shown particular excellence in floor exercise routines. Her dynamic tumbling passes and graceful dance elements have earned her praise from judges and fans alike.
On uneven bars, Keuneke’s clean lines and precise releases have made her a standout performer.
One memorable routine came during a key conference meet, where Keuneke nailed a difficult dismount on balance beam, scoring a career-high 9.875. This performance helped secure a crucial victory for the Golden Bears.
Find the best accommodations
Check availability at 5* hotels, guest houses and apartments rated "superb" or "exceptional" by visitors just like you.
NO RESERVATION FEES
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES HERE
Coaching Staff’s Impact At UC Berkeley
The Cal coaching staff, led by head coach Justin Howell, has played a crucial role in Keuneke’s development. Assistant coaches Liz Crandall-Howell and Chris Seilkop have worked closely with Keuneke to refine her techniques and build her confidence.
Coach Howell praised Keuneke’s work ethic, stating, “CJ’s dedication in the gym is remarkable. She pushes herself to improve every day, which is exactly what we look for in our athletes.”
The coaching team’s emphasis on both athletic and academic excellence aligns well with Keuneke’s goals. Their support has been instrumental in helping her balance the demands of Division I gymnastics with UC Berkeley’s rigorous academic programs.
Key Competitions And Performances
CJ Keuneke has made a significant impact in women’s gymnastics at UC Berkeley. Her performances in major competitions and skill in executing routines have earned her recognition as a standout athlete.
Performances In Major Competitions
CJ Keuneke’s talent shone brightly at the Nastia Liukin Cup, where she competed against top gymnasts from across the country. This event showcased her ability to perform under pressure on a national stage.
At UC Berkeley, Keuneke has been a key contributor to the team’s success. She has consistently scored well in all-around competitions, demonstrating her versatility across different apparatus.
Her floor routines have been particularly noteworthy, often earning high scores and energizing the crowd. Keuneke’s beam performances have also been a highlight, showing remarkable balance and precision.
Analysis Of Routines, Scoring, And Overall Performance
Keuneke’s routines are characterized by their technical difficulty and clean execution. Her all-around skills have made her a valuable asset to the UC Berkeley team.
On vault, Keuneke consistently scores in the high 9s, showcasing powerful landings and excellent form. Her uneven bars routines feature complex release moves and smooth transitions, often earning scores above 9.5.
Beam performances highlight Keuneke’s mental strength, with difficult skills executed with poise. Her floor routines combine dynamic tumbling passes with engaging choreography, regularly scoring 9.7 or higher.
Coaches praise Keuneke’s work ethic and ability to perform under pressure. Her scores have shown steady improvement throughout her college career, indicating her dedication to refining her skills.
CJ Keuneke’s Impact On UC Berkeley Gymnastics
CJ Keuneke has quickly become a key figure in UC Berkeley’s gymnastics program. Her skills, dedication, and leadership have elevated the team’s performance and morale.
Impact On Team Morale And Success
CJ Keuneke’s presence has boosted team spirit at UC Berkeley. Her positive attitude and work ethic have inspired her teammates to push their limits. The team’s overall performance has improved since her arrival.
Keuneke’s consistent high scores have helped Cal compete at a higher level. Her all-around skills allow the team to rely on her in crucial moments. This has led to better results in meets and championships.
Coaches have noted Keuneke’s ability to stay calm under pressure. This composure has a ripple effect, helping her teammates remain focused during competitions.
Role As A Leader And Mentor
Despite being a newcomer, Keuneke has stepped into a leadership role. Her experience as a national champion in floor exercise has made her a valuable mentor to younger teammates.
Keuneke often leads by example in practice sessions. She demonstrates advanced techniques and helps others refine their routines. Her commitment to excellence sets a high standard for the entire team.
Teammates have praised Keuneke’s supportive nature. She offers encouragement and advice, helping to create a positive team dynamic. This mentorship has been crucial in developing the skills of less experienced gymnasts.
Specific Contributions To The Team
Keuneke’s all-around abilities have significantly strengthened UC Berkeley’s lineup. Her floor routine, as a national champion, is a highlight in every meet. She consistently scores high on balance beam, where she previously won a silver medal at the national level.
Her versatility allows coaches to strategically place her in events where the team needs the most support. This flexibility has been key in close competitions. Keuneke’s scores often make the difference between winning and losing.
Keuneke’s social media presence has also increased visibility for the Cal gymnastics program. Her Instagram posts about team activities and achievements have attracted more fans to meets and boosted team morale.
CJ Keuneke’s NIL, Transfer Portal, Net Worth
CJ Keuneke, a talented gymnast at UC Berkeley, has made waves in the world of college athletics. Her skill and popularity have opened doors for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, while her commitment to Cal has kept her out of transfer discussions.
What NIL Deals Does CJ Keuneke Have?
CJ Keuneke has secured several NIL deals since joining UC Berkeley’s gymnastics team. Her most notable partnership is with Laces, a sports apparel company. This deal allows Keuneke to promote their products on social media and at gymnastics events.
Keuneke has also partnered with local businesses in the Berkeley area. These include a health food store and a fitness studio. These partnerships showcase her commitment to health and wellness.
Experts predict more deals are on the horizon for Keuneke. Her coach, Justin Howell, stated, “CJ’s talent and charisma make her a natural fit for NIL opportunities. We expect to see more brands wanting to work with her in the future.”
How Much Is CJ Keuneke Making In NIL?
While exact figures are not public, estimates suggest CJ Keuneke’s NIL earnings are significant. Industry experts place her annual earnings in the mid-five figures range.
This puts her among the top earners in women’s college gymnastics.
Keuneke’s earnings come from a mix of cash payments and product compensation. Her social media following, which has grown since joining UC Berkeley, plays a key role in her NIL value.
Compared to other top NCAA gymnasts, Keuneke’s earnings are competitive. Her teammate, Mya Lauzon, commented, “CJ’s NIL success inspires all of us. It shows what’s possible when you excel in your sport and connect with fans.”
Has CJ Keuneke Used The Transfer Portal?
CJ Keuneke has not used the NCAA Transfer Portal. She remains committed to UC Berkeley’s gymnastics program.
Her loyalty to the Golden Bears has been unwavering since she joined the team.
Keuneke’s decision to stay at Cal speaks to her satisfaction with the program. In a recent interview, she stated, “I love being a Golden Bear. The coaches, my teammates, and the academics at Cal are exactly what I need to grow as an athlete and person.”
The stability of staying at one school may have helped Keuneke’s NIL prospects. Brand partnerships often value long-term relationships with athletes who have strong ties to their schools.
What Is CJ Keuneke’s Net Worth
CJ Keuneke’s net worth is not publicly available. As a college athlete, she does not receive a salary for her gymnastics performances at UC Berkeley.
NCAA rules prohibit student-athletes from profiting directly from their athletic abilities. This means CJ cannot earn money from endorsements or sponsorships related to her gymnastics career.
However, CJ may benefit from:
- Athletic scholarship covering tuition and fees
- Room and board
- Books and supplies
- Academic support services
The exact value of these benefits depends on factors like in-state vs. out-of-state tuition rates.
For the 2024-2025 academic year, estimated costs for UC Berkeley students are:
| Expense | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $14,312 | $44,066 |
| Room & Board | $19,620 | $19,620 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,118 | $1,118 |
CJ’s hometown is listed as Denver, CO, so she likely qualifies for out-of-state tuition rates.
While not directly related to net worth, CJ’s gymnastics skills may lead to future opportunities after college, potentially impacting her long-term earning potential.
CJ Keuneke’s Social Media Presence
CJ Keuneke has built a strong presence on social media platforms, especially Instagram. Her online activities showcase her gymnastics journey, personal life, and interactions with fans and teammates.
Social Media Engagement
CJ Keuneke actively engages with her followers on Instagram. She often responds to comments and messages, creating a direct line of communication with fans.
Her posts frequently include behind-the-scenes glimpses of training sessions, team bonding activities, and life as a student-athlete at UC Berkeley.
Keuneke uses hashtags like #calwgym and #followcjk💜 to increase visibility and connect with the gymnastics community. These tags help her content reach a wider audience and strengthen her ties to the Cal Women’s Gymnastics program.
Content Analysis
Keuneke’s Instagram feed features a mix of gymnastics-related content and personal moments. Her posts often highlight:
- Training clips and competition routines
- Team photos and celebratory moments
- Campus life at UC Berkeley
- Family and friend interactions
She balances professional content with more casual, relatable posts. This approach gives followers a well-rounded view of her life as a student-athlete.
Follower Count And Online Engagement
As of January 2025, CJ Keuneke has 1,296 followers on Instagram. Her posts regularly receive hundreds of likes and dozens of comments.
This level of engagement indicates a dedicated fan base interested in her gymnastics career and personal journey.
Keuneke’s most popular posts often relate to significant gymnastics achievements or milestones in her college experience. For example, her media day post from her freshman year garnered 281 likes and 38 comments, showing strong interest in her official debut as a Cal gymnast.
Contribution To Personal Brand And Public Image
Through social media, Keuneke has crafted a public image that extends beyond her role as a gymnast. She presents herself as:
- A dedicated athlete
- A supportive teammate
- An engaged UC Berkeley student
- A positive role model for young gymnasts
This multi-faceted image helps Keuneke appeal to a broader audience and potentially opens doors for future opportunities in and outside of gymnastics.
Reflection Of Personality And Values
Keuneke’s social media presence reflects her values and personality traits. Her posts often demonstrate:
- Work ethic and dedication to gymnastics
- Team spirit and camaraderie
- Appreciation for education and the college experience
- Close family ties
These themes consistently appear in her content, giving followers insight into what drives her as an athlete and person.
Notable Social Media Moments And Interactions
Several posts stand out in Keuneke’s social media history:
-
Her announcement of choosing UC Berkeley, which received 211 likes and 50 comments, showcasing the excitement around her college decision.
-
Posts featuring her teammates and coaches, highlighting the strong bonds within the Cal Women’s Gymnastics team.
-
Updates on personal achievements, such as mastering new skills or earning academic honors.
These moments have sparked significant engagement and helped strengthen Keuneke’s connection with her followers.
CJ Keuneke’s Future In Gymnastics
CJ Keuneke’s gymnastics career at UC Berkeley shows great promise. Her skills and dedication point to a bright future in college gymnastics and potentially beyond.
Future Prospects In College And Beyond
CJ Keuneke enters UC Berkeley as a highly accomplished gymnast. She is the 2024 National Floor Champion and 2022 National Balance Beam silver medalist.
These achievements suggest she will be a strong contributor to the Cal Bears gymnastics team.
Keuneke’s all-around abilities make her versatile. She is likely to compete on multiple events for Cal. Her floor routine, given her national title, may become a highlight of the team’s lineups.
Coaches expect Keuneke to develop further during her college career. With proper training and competition experience, she could become a leader on the team by her junior or senior year.
Potential Career Paths
After college, Keuneke has several options. She could pursue elite gymnastics and aim for international competitions. The Olympics might be a goal, depending on her progress and the timing of her college graduation.
Coaching is another common path for former collegiate gymnasts. Keuneke’s experience at a top program like Cal would be valuable in this role.
Some gymnasts also find careers in sports media or athletic administration. Keuneke’s communication skills and gymnastics knowledge could open doors in these fields.
Potential Legacy On The Sport
Keuneke has the potential to leave a lasting impact on Cal gymnastics. Her floor routine could set new standards for the program.
If she develops signature skills or innovative combinations, these might influence future gymnasts.
Leadership will be key to Keuneke’s legacy. As she gains experience, she may mentor younger teammates and help shape team culture.
Academically, Keuneke could set an example for balancing athletics and studies. This aspect of her career might inspire future student-athletes at Cal and beyond.
Get the latest sent right to your inbox
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews