Leah Tillman is fearless, even when she’s upside down and twisted around.

At 8 years old Tillman beams self-confidence, something her instructor HattieRose Marshall said is crucial for all young gymnasts.

“Everything depends on their confidence,” Marshall said. “It’s great to have that skill because I can help them get to higher levels of difficulty.”

As Tillman was practicing her solo routine for this year’s Natchez Gymnastics Spring Program, Marshall worked her through the opening stages of the number.

Without hesitation, Tillman ran full speed into her first tumbling pass, which included three simultaneous back handsprings. She learned to make sharp turns, striking poses with the utmost flash.

Nothing seemed to phase Tillman’s composure until Marshall wanted her to try something she has never done before.

The move required Tillman to roll to the floor, planting one leg first while kicking the other in the air until she reached the mat. Once her legs were crossed, Tillman was to reach her hands straight back and kick herself over into a standing position.

Tillman tried once, but her arms were too crooked to support her balance. So, she tried again — and again, and again.

“I love to see when someone just gets it,” Marshall said. “It has helped other girls tremendously because they see how great you can feel when it happens. It’s an accomplishment for them, and the celebrations are endless.”

For young athletes such as Tillman, Marshall said even those who are daring still need a little support every once and awhile.

“Because they are young, we of course have our challenges,” she said. “It’s hard to watch them sometimes because they can shut down. All I usually have to do is just encourage them and talk them through it.”

As for Tillman’s future, her mother Katie Tillman said she doesn’t suspect her daughters’ spunk to vanish anytime soon.

“It’s all gymnastics,” Katie Tillman said. “She just has a drive, so I guess others kids watch that. Sometimes she wows smaller kids with moves that are simple for her.

“She’s just not afraid to try. She loves to fly — it’s a thrill for her.”