VALENCIA — They're jumping for joy in the Mars School District for a fifth-grader who brought a fistful of ribbons home from Knoxville, Tenn.

Devin Kohler, a member of the Mars Elementary School Jump Rope team, earned ribbons in three categories during Mars' first-ever trip to the Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympic Games July 26-30.

The diminutive jumper took fourth place in speed, where athletes jump as many times in one minute as possible, fifth place in the freestyle jumping category, and eighth place in the power category, which has athletes pass the rope under their feet twice in one jump.

Devin faced only two competitors at regional competition, but jumped against 18 other boys in his age group in Knoxville.

Pam Best, Mars Elementary physical education teacher and jump rope team coach, said Devin's fourth in speed represented his best time ever.

"He had 230 jumps in one minute," said Best. "The winner had 298."

Devin, 11, struggled in the power category, jumping "only" 197 times in one minute. Best said he had a score of more than 200 at regionals. She said had Devin given his usual performance in the power category, Mars would have taken an overall bronze medal. But Best is not complaining.

"To go to Junior Olympics the very first year and get in the top eight in three categories and get three ribbons? It's awesome," said Best. "I am looking forward to next year already."

As for his account of the experience, Devin said he enjoyed the social aspect of the event as much as he did the actual competition.

"I love meeting people and seeing what they're like," said Devin. "It was fun, and a challenge, and you get better (at the sport) for other times."

Devin said he was proud to bring three ribbons home to Mars: "The people were surprised. They didn't think I'd do it."

Devin's father, Pete Kohler, said he and his wife were surprised when their athletic son joined a school jump rope team. But they now realize that the sport requires the same amount of skill, strength and coordination as the football and wrestling Devin is involved in at Mars.

"His motor is always going, so this gives him something to do," said Pete Kohler.

Best said Mars was only one of two schools from Pennsylvania to participate in the national competition, the other being from Ligonier.

Devin said his experience in Knoxville was positive, and he hopes to make nationals next year.

"It was fun," said the triple-ribbon holder. "I was happy."

Fifth-grader Jessica Bender also participated in the national competition.