A High School Playbook athlete, Olympic gold-medalist and TV celebrity is in the Louisville area this week.
Shawn Johnson is conducting gymnastics clinics in New Albany and Louisville.
Johnson talked about a number of topics, including her experience at the summer Olympics in Beijing, her win on the TV show "Dancing with the Stars" and what's next for the high school teenager. Before going to the Olympics in Beijing, Johnson attended a High School Playbook school in Des Moines, Iowa.
Johnson spent Thursday morning today at Sigs Sportsplex in New Albany working with young girls on the balance beam and taking pictures with them.
Last summer, Johnson won three silver medals in Beijing, in the team competition, the all-around and the floor exercise.
She also took home gold for the United States after her win on the balance beam.
Last month, she and her dancing partner were named champions on "Dancing with the Stars." Johnson said the two competitions were not at all alike.
"I don't really think it's comparable. With the Olympic gold, it's for your country. With dancing, it's for yourself and for fun. So, definitely two different things; one thing I worked 16 years for and one I worked 11 weeks," Johnson said.
And at just 17 years old, Johnson said she's happy young gymnasts look up to her.
"When I was their age, I had my role models and idols and if they would have worked with me, I would have been the happiest girl in the world. So, if that's how they feel, that's the best gift you can give," said Johnson.
Johnson said she plans to finish her senior year of high school by taking online classes and plans to get back into training.
As for the 2012 Olympics, she said it's a tough decision -- and one that can't be made this early.
Johnson will be conducting a second clinic in Louisville on Friday morning. She also will be attending two events with special needs children, a dinner Thursday at the Ali Center and a luncheon Friday at St. Stephen Martyr School.
slideshow: shawn johnson's new albany clinic
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