Turning an old adage on its head, trampolinist Jacob Costello is really hoping that one step backwards leads to two steps forward.

An 18 year-old graduate of Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School, the product of the Sudbury Laurels gymnastics team has just completed his first year of Human Kinetics studies at the University of Ottawa.

For as much as he knew that he wanted to continue his competitive career on the trampoline, having worked his way up to competing at nationals in recent years, the thoughtful young man also knew that the balancing act would not be easy.

"Last year, I was training five days a week; this year, it was a max of three days a week," said Costello, who combined with Abigail Rushton to win silver in the Synchronized Mixed event at the Canadian Championships in Oshawa.

"It was a lot less consistent training. My scores went down this year and I lot some skills - but my execution and form improved on the skills I still do have."

Not surprisingly, it leaves Costello at something of a crossroads, a juncture not the least bit unusual for competitive athletes at this age who are also committed to pursuing post-secondary studies.

In making the move to Ottawa and training alongside teammates at the Tumblers Gymnastics Centre, Costello availed himself to options in the sport that just might be a better fit given the current demands on his time.

"I made a lot of friends who do freestyle trampoline - which is more about just going out and having fun with your friends (as opposed to pure training)," said Costello. "I can still go out and enjoy myself, even if I am not as good."

That said, all signs point to devoting at least one more year to try and get back to Level 7. "It's about starting to work everything from the bottom up again," he said. "I am definitely going to compete next year. I am hoping to be spending more time in the gym."

"Every competition this year was to try and hit scores to mobilize to Level 7 - and I came so, so close at third qualifier," added Costello. "I hope next year goes better. I do think that this year was a lot of getting used to Ottawa and school."