Lennox sixth grader soars in Aerial Arts Competition
- 21 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Only a sixth grader, Lennox student Brooklyn Fodness is already reaching impressive heights, literally and competitively, in the world of aerial arts.
The daughter of Mike and Amanda Fodness, Brooklyn began her aerial journey at the age of eight after seeing a performer on social media. Inspired by what she saw, she improvised her own first attempt at home.
“I saw a performer on social media and hung a bed sheet in a tree outside our house,” Brooklyn said.
That early curiosity quickly turned into a serious passion when her mother gave her aerial lessons as a birthday gift.
Mesmerizing was how she described that first class.
“I was hooked from the first class. I never looked back,” said Brooklyn.
Since then, Brooklyn has devoted herself to mastering aerial disciplines, primarily performing on silks and hammock apparatus. While she enjoys both, silks remains her favorite because of its challenge and technical demands.
“Silks is more complex,” she explained. “It is physically harder than hammock.”
Her dedication has led to major success in competition. At her latest event, the Black Hills Aerial Cup, Brooklyn earned first place in both Advanced Silks and Advanced Hammock. She also received the Best Entertainer award and was named Absolute Champion for earning the highest overall score of the competition.
One of the most difficult skills she has learned so far is a move called the scorpion to ankle hang.
“This is like an upside down reverse straddle and then a drop catch at your ankles,” Brooklyn explained.
Training at a high level takes commitment. Brooklyn spends between 10 and 12 hours each week practicing, while also keeping up with school responsibilities.
“Late nights and a positive attitude along with determination,” she said when asked how she balances homework and training.
Despite the hard work, Brooklyn says the reward comes every time she takes the stage.
“Performing! I love performing!” she said.
For other young people interested in trying aerial arts, Brooklyn offers simple but powerful advice.
“Believe in yourself,” she said. “Your biggest weapon is your mind.”
With her love for performing and a growing list of accomplishments, Brooklyn is proving that big dreams can take flight — even at a young age.