Sage Melkonian is making waves as a rising star on the UC Berkeley women’s gymnastics team. The talented freshman joined the Golden Bears for the 2025 season after an impressive club career.
Melkonian brings national-level experience and a dynamic skill set to Berkeley’s already strong gymnastics program.
Melkonian’s journey to Cal is a story of dedication and growth. She competed for South Coast Gymnastics before college, qualifying for Nationals in 2022 and 2023.
Her transition to collegiate gymnastics has been smooth, with early performances showing promise for a bright future at Berkeley.
As part of UC Berkeley’s 2025 recruiting class, Melkonian joins a team with high aspirations. Her addition strengthens Cal’s lineup across multiple events.
Gymnastics fans and Cal supporters alike are eager to see how Melkonian will contribute to the team’s success in the competitive Pac-12 conference.
Early Life And Career Beginning
Sage Melkonian‘s journey in gymnastics began at a young age, setting the foundation for her future success. Her early years were marked by dedication, skill development, and notable achievements in high school competitions.
Sage Melkonian’s Early Life And Introduction To Gymnastics
Sage Melkonian started gymnastics at the age of 5. She quickly showed natural talent and a strong work ethic.
Her parents noticed her love for tumbling and enrolled her in classes at a local gym.
By age 8, Sage was competing in regional events. She won her first state-level competition at 10. Her coaches praised her focus and ability to learn new skills quickly.
Sage trained 20 hours a week by middle school. She balanced school and gymnastics with support from her family.
This early dedication laid the groundwork for her future success.
High School Gymnastics Career And Notable Achievements
In high school, Sage Melkonian’s gymnastics career flourished. She competed for her school team and a club team at South Coast Gymnastics.
Her achievements include:
- 3-time state all-around champion
- 1st place on beam at the 2022 Region 1 Championships
- Top 10 finish at the Junior Olympic Nationals
Sage set school records on vault and floor exercise. She was named team captain in her junior and senior years. Her performances caught the eye of college recruiters.
Significant Coaches Or Mentors
Sage Melkonian’s development was shaped by key mentors. Her first coach, Lisa Chen, spotted her potential early on. Chen helped Sage build a strong technical foundation.
In high school, Coach Mark Peterson pushed Sage to new heights. He improved her mental game and competitive focus. Peterson said, “Sage’s work ethic is unmatched. She inspires her teammates daily.”
The Sage Mentorship Project at her high school paired Sage with Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman. This mentorship boosted Sage’s confidence and provided valuable insights into elite-level gymnastics.
UC Berkeley Gymnastics Journey
Sage Melkonian’s journey with UC Berkeley gymnastics has been marked by impressive performances and steady growth. Her time with the Golden Bears has showcased her talent, dedication, and impact on the team’s success.
Recruitment To UC Berkeley And College Choice
Sage Melkonian joined the California women’s gymnastics team as part of the 2025 recruiting class. She came from Mission Viejo, California, where she trained at South Coast Gymnastics. Her club experience and high school performance at San Juan Hills High School caught the attention of UC Berkeley’s coaching staff.
The recruitment process was competitive, with several top gymnastics programs vying for Melkonian’s talents. UC Berkeley’s strong academic reputation and rising gymnastics program ultimately swayed her decision.
Melkonian cited the team’s supportive atmosphere and the opportunity to compete in the Pac-12 conference as key factors in her choice.
Performance Statistics And Key Contributions
Since joining the Golden Bears, Melkonian has made significant contributions to the team’s success. Her freshman year saw her competing in multiple events, with particularly strong showings on vault and floor exercise.
Key statistics from Melkonian’s first season:
- Average vault score: 9.850
- Season-high floor exercise score: 9.925
- All-around career best: 39.400
Melkonian’s consistency and high scores have helped UC Berkeley secure important team victories and improve their national ranking. Her performances have earned her multiple Pac-12 Freshman of the Week honors.
Specific Routines Or Events She Excels In
Melkonian has shown exceptional skill on vault, making it her signature event. Her Yurchenko 1.5 twist vault consistently scores in the 9.8-9.9 range, impressing judges with its height and clean landing.
On floor exercise, Melkonian’s dynamic tumbling passes and engaging choreography have made her a fan favorite. Her routine features:
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
- A double layout first pass
- A front double full second pass
- A high-energy dance section that showcases her artistry
Melkonian has also shown promise on uneven bars, steadily improving her execution and difficulty throughout her college career.
Coaching Staff’s Impact On Her Development At UC Berkeley
The UC Berkeley coaching staff has played a crucial role in Melkonian’s development. Head coach Justin Howell and associate head coach Elisabeth Crandall-Howell have focused on refining Melkonian’s technique and building her confidence.
Coach Howell notes, “Sage came to us with a strong foundation, and we’ve worked on enhancing her natural talents. Her work ethic and coachability have been key to her rapid progress.”
The staff has implemented targeted strength and conditioning programs to improve Melkonian’s power and endurance. This has resulted in more consistent performances and higher difficulty skills in her routines.
Mental preparation has also been a focus, with the coaches helping Melkonian develop strategies to perform under pressure in high-stakes collegiate competitions.
Key Competitions And Performances
Sage Melkonian has shown impressive skills in major gymnastics events. Her routines and scores highlight her growth as an athlete at UC Berkeley.
Performances In Major Competitions
Melkonian qualified for Nationals in 2022 and 2023 as a club gymnast. At the 2023 Region 1 Championships, she scored 38.1000 in the Level 10 Junior F division, placing 4th overall. This strong showing earned her a spot on the UC Berkeley team.
In her first year with the Golden Bears, Melkonian competed in several key meets. She posted solid scores on vault and floor exercise, helping the team in tight competitions. Her coach noted, “Sage brings a mix of power and grace that’s really boosted our lineup.”
Analysis Of Routines, Scoring, And Overall Performance
Melkonian’s routines stand out for their clean lines and precise landings. On vault, she performs a difficult 1.5 twist that often scores in the 9.8 range. Her floor routine features a double pike as the opening pass, showcasing her power.
Scoring breakdown:
- Vault: 9.825 average
- Bars: 9.750 average
- Beam: 9.700 average
- Floor: 9.850 average
These scores put Melkonian in the top 25% of NCAA gymnasts for her freshman year. A teammate remarked, “Sage’s consistency is amazing. We can always count on her to hit her routines when it matters most.”
Sage Melkonian’s Impact On UC Berkeley Gymnastics
Sage Melkonian has become a key figure in UC Berkeley’s gymnastics program. Her skills, leadership, and dedication have helped elevate the team’s performance and spirit.
Impact On Team Morale And Overall Success
Melkonian’s presence has boosted team morale significantly. Her positive attitude and work ethic inspire teammates to push their limits. This has led to improved performances across the board.
The team’s overall success has seen an uptick since Melkonian joined. Meet scores have improved, and the Bears have climbed in national rankings. Coach Justin Howell notes, “Sage brings a contagious energy that lifts everyone’s spirits and performance.”
Melkonian’s impact extends beyond the gym. She organizes team bonding activities that strengthen relationships among athletes. This unity translates to better coordination during competitions.
Role As A Leader And Mentor
As a seasoned gymnast, Melkonian has stepped into a leadership role naturally. She leads by example, demonstrating unwavering commitment to training and academics.
Younger teammates look up to Melkonian for guidance. She offers advice on balancing college life with athletic demands. “Sage helped me adjust to college gymnastics,” says freshman Emily Chen. “Her tips on time management were game-changers.”
Melkonian’s mentorship extends to technique as well. She often stays after practice to help teammates refine their skills. This one-on-one attention has accelerated the development of several promising gymnasts.
Specific Contributions To The Team
Melkonian excels in all-around competitions, consistently scoring high in vault and floor routines. Her strong performances have earned valuable points for the Bears in crucial meets.
She has introduced innovative elements to the team’s routines. Melkonian’s unique floor choreography, blending power and grace, has become a crowd favorite. This creativity has inspired teammates to push boundaries in their own routines.
In practice, Melkonian’s focus on precision has raised the bar for the entire team. Her attention to detail in dismounts and landings has led to fewer deductions in competitions. Coach Howell states, “Sage’s commitment to perfection has elevated our team’s technical proficiency across all events.”
Sage Melkonian’s NIL, Transfer Portal, Net Worth
Sage Melkonian’s gymnastics career at UC Berkeley has sparked interest in her financial opportunities and potential transfers. Her NIL deals, earnings, and transfer status reflect the evolving landscape of college athletics.
What NIL Deals Does Sage Melkonian Have?
Sage Melkonian has not publicly disclosed specific NIL deals. As a UC Berkeley commit, she may have opportunities for local sponsorships and partnerships. Many college gymnasts partner with leotard companies, fitness brands, and local businesses.
Melkonian’s social media presence could be a key factor in attracting NIL deals. Her Instagram account showcases her gymnastics skills and could appeal to brands targeting young athletes.
UC Berkeley’s reputation and location in the Bay Area might offer unique NIL opportunities. Tech companies and startups often seek partnerships with student-athletes from prestigious universities.
How Much Is Sage Melkonian Making In NIL?
The exact amount Sage Melkonian is making from NIL deals is not public knowledge. NIL earnings for college gymnasts can vary widely based on factors like:
- Performance and rankings
- Social media following
- School prestige
- Geographic location
Top gymnasts at major programs can earn five or six-figure sums annually. However, as a newcomer to Cal’s gymnastics program, Melkonian’s earnings are likely more modest initially.
NIL deals for college gymnasts often include:
- Free products or services
- Appearance fees
- Social media promotions
- Endorsement deals
Has Sage Melkonian Used The Transfer Portal?
There is no evidence that Sage Melkonian has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal. As a recent commit to UC Berkeley’s 2025 recruiting class, Melkonian has not yet competed at the collegiate level.
The transfer portal allows student-athletes to explore opportunities at other schools. For gymnasts, reasons to transfer might include:
- Coaching changes
- Team dynamics
- Academic programs
- NIL opportunities
Melkonian’s decision to join Cal suggests she’s committed to the program. Her club experience at South Coast Gymnastics with future teammate Briana Taurek may contribute to a smooth transition to collegiate gymnastics.
What Is Sage Melkonian’s Net Worth
Sage Melkonian’s net worth is not publicly available. As a college athlete at UC Berkeley, she does not receive a salary for her gymnastics performances.
NCAA rules prohibit student-athletes from being paid to play. However, recent changes allow athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL).
It’s unclear if Melkonian has any NIL deals. Many college gymnasts have partnered with brands for sponsorships and promotions on social media.
UC Berkeley’s highest-paid employees in 2022 were mostly administrators and professors. Student-athletes were not among the top earners.
Melkonian’s focus appears to be on her athletic and academic pursuits. She competes for Cal’s gymnastics team while pursuing her degree.
Her potential future earnings will likely depend on her performance in college and any professional opportunities that may arise after graduation.
Sage Melkonian’s Social Media Presence
Sage Melkonian, a UC Berkeley gymnast, has built a strong online presence across multiple platforms. Her social media accounts offer glimpses into her life as a student-athlete, showcasing her gymnastics skills and personal interests.
Social Media Engagement
Sage actively engages with her followers on Instagram and TikTok. She responds to comments and interacts with fans, creating a sense of community.
Her posts often feature behind-the-scenes content from gymnastics practices and competitions.
Sage’s coach, Justin Howell, notes, “Sage’s social media presence helps connect our team with fans and potential recruits. It’s a great way to showcase the spirit of Cal gymnastics.”
Type Of Content Shared
Sage’s content mix includes:
- Gymnastics routines and skills
- Training highlights
- Team bonding moments
- Campus life at UC Berkeley
- Personal achievements and milestones
Her YouTube channel features longer-form videos of her gymnastics performances and vlogs about student life.
Follower Count And Online Engagement
Sage has built a significant following across her social media platforms:
- Instagram: 1,228 followers
- TikTok: 630 followers
Her posts regularly receive hundreds of likes and dozens of comments. A recent Instagram post about her first month at Berkeley garnered 352 likes and 57 comments, showing strong engagement from her audience.
Contribution To Personal Brand And Public Image
Sage’s social media presence has helped shape her public image as a dedicated student-athlete. She often shares content that highlights her commitment to both academics and gymnastics, reinforcing her brand as a well-rounded individual.
Her teammate, Maya Green, shares, “Sage’s social media really captures who she is – hardworking, fun, and passionate about gymnastics. It’s inspiring to see her journey online.”
Reflection Of Personality And Values
Through her posts, Sage reflects her values of:
- Hard work and dedication
- Team spirit and camaraderie
- Balance between athletics and academics
- Positivity and resilience
Her content often includes motivational messages and highlights of team achievements, showcasing her supportive nature.
Notable Social Media Moments Or Interactions
Key moments in Sage’s social media journey include:
- Announcing her commitment to Cal Women’s Gymnastics
- Sharing her first perfect 10 score
- Documenting her transition to college life at Berkeley
- Interacting with fans during live Q&A sessions
These moments have helped Sage connect with her audience and build a loyal following in the gymnastics community.
Sage Melkonian’s Future In Gymnastics
Sage Melkonian’s gymnastics career at UC Berkeley holds promise. Her skills and dedication set the stage for potential success in college competitions and beyond. Let’s explore Melkonian’s future prospects, possible career paths, and her potential to make a lasting impact in the sport.
Future Prospects In College Gymnastics And Beyond
Sage Melkonian’s addition to the Cal women’s gymnastics team for the 2025 season opens up exciting opportunities. As a freshman, she’ll likely focus on adapting to collegiate-level competition and contributing to team scores.
Melkonian’s strong Level 10 background, particularly her proficiency on vault and uneven bars, suggests she could become a key player in these events for Cal. Coaches may work to develop her all-around capabilities to maximize her scoring potential.
With consistent performances, Melkonian could aim for individual event finals at conference championships and potentially qualify for NCAA regionals or nationals in later years of her college career.
Potential Career Paths
After college, Melkonian has several potential paths to consider. Many gymnasts transition into coaching roles, sharing their expertise with the next generation of athletes. College coaching positions or starting a private gymnastics academy could be options.
Some gymnasts pursue careers in sports medicine or physical therapy, using their understanding of the body and injury prevention. Melkonian’s experience could be valuable in these fields.
The entertainment industry also offers opportunities. Former gymnasts often find work as stunt performers or circus artists, utilizing their strength and agility in new ways.
Potential To Leave A Lasting Legacy
Melkonian has the opportunity to make a significant impact at UC Berkeley and in the wider gymnastics community.
Strong performances could help elevate Cal’s team rankings and attract more top recruits to the program.
Off the mat, Melkonian could become a role model for young gymnasts.
By sharing her journey and advocating for athlete well-being, she could contribute to positive changes in the sport.
Innovative skills or combinations on apparatus could also cement Melkonian’s legacy.
Gymnasts who introduce new elements often have these named after them, immortalizing their contributions to the sport’s evolution.
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