Blaine Wilson Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Blaine Wilson, born on August 3, 1974, in Columbus, Ohio, is a retired American gymnast renowned for his exceptional contributions to the sport. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, he was introduced to gymnastics at the age of four by his father, who recognized his abundant energy and potential. Wilson's dedication led him to Ohio State University, where he became the most decorated male gymnast in the program's history. Between 1994 and 1997, he secured six individual NCAA titles and played a pivotal role in the team's national championship victory in 1996. His collegiate achievements earned him the Big Ten Athlete of the Year award in 1997 and the prestigious Nissen-Emery Award, often referred to as the "Heisman" of men's gymnastics. On the international stage, Wilson's career was marked by consistent excellence. He clinched five consecutive U.S. national all-around titles from 1996 to 2000, establishing a record that underscored his dominance in the sport. His Olympic journey spanned three Games: 1996, 2000, and 2004. In the 2004 Athens Olympics, he was instrumental in securing a silver medal for the U.S. men's gymnastics team, marking the country's first Olympic team medal since 1984. Wilson's resilience was evident in his ability to overcome significant challenges. In 2004, months before the Olympics, he tore his left biceps tendon. Demonstrating remarkable determination, he returned to competition and contributed to the team's silver medal win in Athens. Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Wilson has made substantial contributions to gymnastics through coaching and mentorship. He co-founded Integrity Athletics in Plain City, Ohio, where he serves as an owner and coach. His commitment to nurturing young talent reflects his dedication to the sport's future. In recognition of his outstanding career, Wilson was inducted into the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 2014. His journey from a young enthusiast in Ohio to an Olympic medalist and esteemed coach serves as an inspiring testament to dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in gymnastics.