JerQuavia Henderson’s return to collegiate gymnastics continues to gather momentum, with the Iowa Hawkeyes standout earning a 9.9 score on floor exercise in a recent meet.
According to the National Black Guide, her performance drew loud applause and reaffirmed her status as one of the program’s most respected athletes.
Competing for Iowa Gymnastics, Henderson delivered a routine marked by confidence, power and expressiveness, combining technical precision with a visible sense of joy. The near-perfect score not only boosted Iowa’s team total but also underscored Henderson’s readiness as she competes in her final season of eligibility.
A Veteran Presence in the Hawkeyes’ Lineup
Before stepping away from the sport, Henderson had already built an impressive collegiate résumé. She is a multiple-time NCAA competitor for Iowa, best known for her consistency on floor and vault and for her ability to deliver under pressure. Teammates and coaches alike have long regarded her as a steady leader — an athlete whose experience and reliability anchor the Hawkeyes’ lineup in high-stakes meets.
Henderson temporarily left competition to prioritize her mental health, a decision that resonated across collegiate athletics at a time when more athletes are speaking openly about the psychological demands of elite sport. Her return this season was not framed as a comeback fueled by doubt or criticism, but as a personal choice to finish her career on her own terms.
More Than a Score
While a 9.9 is among the top marks in NCAA gymnastics, Henderson’s performance carries meaning beyond the numbers. Her return highlights the growing recognition of mental health as a critical component of athletic performance and challenges long-standing narratives that equate rest with weakness.
For many athletes, Henderson’s journey offers a powerful example: stepping away can be a form of strength, and self-care can lead to renewed focus and improved performance. Her routine served as a reminder that experience, resilience and maturity often translate into cleaner execution and stronger competitive presence.
As the season progresses, Henderson’s role extends beyond her scores. She represents a broader shift in college sports — one that values sustainability, well-being and longevity alongside competitive excellence.
With her comeback firmly underway, JerQuavia Henderson is not just contributing points for Iowa. She is helping redefine what strength and success look like in elite collegiate gymnastics.
