Sophomore Ari Kim-Ramirez has become a notable figure within the Granville High School community due to an unusual and highly cultivated talent: competitive yo-yoing. Unlike the casual pastime often associated with the device, Kim-Ramirez practices modern yo-yo manipulation, a field demanding exceptional hand-eye coordination and consistent technical execution. His excellence has garnered widespread attention, distinguishing him among his peers.
The advanced techniques Kim-Ramirez uses are central to the curiosity surrounding him. His tricks routinely incorporate elements like intricate “slack” manipulations and “off-string” play, where the yo-yo is intentionally detached from the string and airborne. Kim-Ramirez said he focuses on “whiptricks… tech tricks, and really small intricate tricks” to build his repertoire. Mastering these disciplines requires not only dexterity but also a deep understanding of momentum and string control. His peers have taken notice of the technical difficulty involved in these performances.
“I think he’s really good; it’s very entertaining to watch,” sophomore Maya Stevenson said.
She noted that the visual appeal of his more acrobatic maneuvers is a highlight for many observers.
“I think my favorite one is ones where the yo-yo goes behind the back. It’s cool,” Stevenson said.
The most surprising aspect of Kim-Ramirez’s skill level is the relatively short duration of his involvement. His commitment to the activity began recently, during the summer prior to his sophomore year. Kim-Ramirez said the catalyst was observing others online.
“I started yo-yoing back in midsummer 2023. I started using a yo-yo after seeing a guy on the internet and it really hooked me,” he said.
This initial exposure led to an immediate and focused pursuit.
To achieve his current level of competence, Kim-Ramirez has instituted a disciplined and time-intensive practice schedule, managing it alongside his academic obligations. He maintains a clear objective for his daily routine, dedicating significant hours to technical refinement.
“Every day, I try to aim for 1-2 hours on school days and like 3-6 hours on weekends,” Kim-Ramirez said.
This commitment highlights the distinction between a hobby and a serious craft. The daily sessions are used to ensure consistency and maintain muscle memory for established routines, while the longer weekend blocks permit the deliberate learning and integration of new trick learning or style adjustment.
Sophomore Gauge Hayes said the appeal of the tricks is somewhat tied to Kim-Ramirez’s personal style.
“I think they’re cool cause Ari does them,” Hayes said. He said a maneuver known as “the hook” as his favorite trick.
Beyond the physical, visible results, the pursuit of yo-yoing has had a significant, positive impact on Kim-Ramirez’s personal outlook and mental engagement. He credits the activity with providing him a solid point of focus and helping issues of boredom.
“Yes, it definitely improves my mood; it makes me more happy and a lot less bored,” Kim-Ramirez said. “When I started yo-yo, I found something I can do.”
